Jewellery Costs vs Selling Prices: How to Buy Smart, Protect Your Investment, and Know Your Options When It’s Time to Sell

 

Understanding the Difference Between What Jewellery Costs and What It Is Worth

Buying a piece of jewellery is often an emotional decision. It may mark an engagement, a milestone, a family celebration, or simply represent a personal achievement. However, jewellery is also a valuable asset, and understanding the difference between the purchase price, the true value, and the future resale potential is essential.

Many consumers are surprised when they discover that the amount they paid for a diamond ring, necklace, or bracelet is not the same as what they may receive if they later decide to sell it.

This difference is not because the jewellery has lost its beauty or quality it is because jewellery moves through different markets.

When you buy jewellery, you are generally paying for:

• The precious metal used in the piece
• The diamonds or gemstones
• Craftsmanship and manufacturing
• Design and brand reputation
• Retail overheads and services
• Warranties, presentation, and customer experience

When you sell jewellery, buyers generally assess:

• The intrinsic value of the materials
• Current market demand
• Diamond quality and certification
• Condition of the item
• Whether the piece has a recognised resale market

Understanding this difference allows you to make better purchasing decisions.

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Why Jewellery Often Sells for Less Than the Original Purchase Price

A common misconception is:

“If I paid $20,000 for my ring, it must be worth $20,000.”

The reality is that retail jewellery pricing and secondary market pricing operate differently.

A jewellery retailer must cover many costs, including:

• Manufacturing
• Skilled craftsmanship
• Rent and staffing
• Insurance
• Marketing
• Stock holding
• Business operations

When a consumer sells privately or through a specialist buyer, those retail costs are no longer part of the transaction.

This is why a professionally valued jewellery item may have a replacement value significantly higher than its liquidation or resale value.

A replacement valuation answers:

“What would it cost to replace this item with a similar piece today?”

A resale valuation answers:

“What is the realistic market price someone would pay today?”

These are two very different numbers.

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How Do You Buy Jewellery Correctly?

Buying jewellery wisely is about more than choosing the most beautiful design. It is about understanding exactly what you are purchasing.

1. Buy Quality, Not Just Size

With diamonds especially, size alone does not determine value.

A smaller, exceptional-quality diamond may hold stronger long-term demand than a larger diamond with poor colour, clarity, or cut.

Important factors include:

• Diamond certification
• Cut quality
• Colour
• Clarity
• Carat weight
• Shape popularity
• Provenance and documentation

A diamond should always be independently assessed and accurately described.

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2. Understand the Diamond Before You Buy

Many consumers rely entirely on a salesperson’s description. While many jewellery professionals provide excellent advice, the safest approach is independent verification.

Ask:

• Who graded the diamond?
• Is the certificate from a recognised laboratory?
• Are the characteristics accurately disclosed?
• Does the diamond match the paperwork?

Independent grading provides confidence and transparency.

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3. Consider Future Liquidity

Not every beautiful piece of jewellery is easy to resell.

Some factors that improve future marketability include:

• High-quality natural diamonds
• Recognised certification
• Classic designs
• Quality craftsmanship
• Good documentation
• Desirable gemstone characteristics

Highly personalised designs, unusual stones, or fashion pieces may have strong emotional value but limited resale demand.

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When It Is Time to Sell, Upgrade, or Liquidate — What Are Your Options?

There are many reasons people choose to sell jewellery:

• Upgrading to a new piece
• Changing personal circumstances
• Estate settlement
• Divorce or separation
• Financial restructuring
• Inheritance decisions
• Legal requirements
• Portfolio management

Whatever the reason, getting a fair outcome requires dealing with experienced professionals who understand the difference between sentimental value and market value.

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Where Can You Sell Jewellery for a Fair Price?

Consumers often make the mistake of accepting the first offer they receive.

A fair selling process should include:

Independent Assessment

Before selling, understand exactly what you own.

A proper assessment should confirm:

• Diamond quality
• Metal content
• Authenticity
• Market position
• Current demand

Multiple Market Options

Depending on the item, options may include:

• Selling directly to a specialist jewellery buyer
• Consignment through an established jeweller
• Private sale
• Auction
• Trade-in towards an upgrade

Each option has advantages and disadvantages.

A quick sale may provide convenience but not always the highest return. A private sale may achieve more but can involve time, security concerns, and uncertainty.

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Why the DCLA Is Uniquely Qualified to Help

The Diamond Certification Laboratory of Australia (DCLA) was established to provide independent diamond expertise, education, and confidence within the Australian jewellery industry.

Unlike a retailer whose role is to sell jewellery, the DCLA’s role is to provide independent assessment and technical knowledge.

The DCLA’s expertise covers:

Independent Diamond Verification

The DCLA can assist with understanding:

• Diamond authenticity
• Natural versus laboratory-grown diamonds
• Diamond grading characteristics
• Quality verification
• Documentation review

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Professional Jewellery and Diamond Assessment

Before buying, selling, upgrading, or making important decisions, an independent assessment helps ensure you understand the true characteristics of your jewellery.

This can be especially important for:

• Estate jewellery
• Inherited diamonds
• Insurance matters
• Divorce settlements
• Investment decisions
• Major purchases

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Helping Consumers Make Better Decisions

The DCLA believes education is one of the most important parts of jewellery ownership.

A knowledgeable buyer is far more likely to purchase correctly, avoid disappointment, and understand the future options available.

Whether you are:

• Buying an engagement ring
• Investing in a significant diamond
• Reviewing inherited jewellery
• Considering an upgrade
• Looking to sell

having independent expertise gives you confidence.

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Jewellery Should Be Enjoyed — But Purchased With Knowledge

Fine jewellery represents craftsmanship, beauty, history, and emotion. However, it is also a valuable asset.

The smartest jewellery owners understand:

• What they purchased
• Why it has value
• How it is documented
• What options exist in the future

The difference between a disappointing purchase and a rewarding jewellery experience often comes down to education and independent advice.

The DCLA provides the knowledge, expertise, and independent perspective to help Australians make informed decisions throughout the entire jewellery journey from purchase to ownership, upgrading, and eventual resale.

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Disclaimer: This article is intended for general educational purposes only and should not be considered financial, legal, or investment advice. Jewellery values can vary depending on market conditions, individual characteristics, certification, condition, and buyer demand. Independent professional assessment is recommended before making significant purchasing or selling decisions.

Luxury Diamond Jewellery Trends for 2026, The Return of Quality, Individuality and Timeless Style

 

For years, fashion dictated what jewellery people wore. In 2026, that has changed.

Today’s luxury jewellery buyers are no longer chasing fleeting trends they are investing in craftsmanship, exceptional natural diamonds and pieces that will be treasured for decades. Whether purchasing an engagement ring, anniversary gift or investment-quality diamond, buyers are demanding authenticity, rarity and expert craftsmanship.

At the DCLA Diamond Exchange in Sydney, we’ve seen a noticeable shift in buying habits. Clients are becoming more educated, asking deeper questions about diamond quality, provenance and long-term value rather than simply focusing on size.

Here are the biggest luxury diamond jewellery trends shaping 2026.

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Natural Diamonds Continue to Define Luxury

While laboratory-grown diamonds have found their place in the jewellery market, natural diamonds continue to dominate the luxury sector.

Collectors and high-end buyers increasingly appreciate the rarity of a diamond that formed naturally over billions of years.

Many clients now seek:

• Exceptional cut quality
• Excellent optical performance
• Higher colour and clarity grades
• Larger certified natural diamonds
• Rare fancy colour diamonds

Rather than purchasing multiple fashion pieces, many Australians are choosing one extraordinary diamond that can become a family heirloom.

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Yellow Gold Makes a Strong Return

White gold and platinum remain popular, but yellow gold has firmly re-established itself as the metal of choice for luxury jewellery.

Its rich colour complements both white and fancy coloured diamonds while offering a timeless appearance that suits every generation.

Popular yellow gold pieces include:

• Solitaire engagement rings
• Diamond tennis bracelets
• Large diamond hoops
• Modern signet rings
• Classic diamond pendants

Many jewellers are also pairing yellow gold with platinum claws, combining warmth with the security and durability of platinum settings.

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Fancy Shape Diamonds Are More Popular Than Ever

Round brilliant diamonds remain Australia’s favourite, but fancy shapes continue gaining momentum.

Some of the fastest-growing choices include:

• Oval
• Emerald Cut
• Pear
• Cushion
• Radiant
• Marquise

These shapes offer individuality while often appearing larger than round diamonds of the same carat weight.

Elegant elongated diamonds also create a flattering appearance when worn in engagement rings.

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Minimalist Designs with Maximum Impact

Luxury no longer means excessive.

Modern jewellery embraces clean lines, refined proportions and exceptional workmanship.

Simple designs featuring beautifully cut diamonds are proving more desirable than heavily ornate settings.

Current favourites include:

• Four-claw solitaire rings
• Hidden halo engagement rings
• Floating diamond pendants
• Fine diamond line necklaces
• Bezel-set diamond bracelets

The emphasis is now on allowing the quality of the diamond to speak for itself.

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Coloured Diamonds and Rare Gemstones Continue to Impress

For buyers wanting something truly unique, coloured diamonds remain among the world’s most desirable gemstones.

Natural:

• Pink diamonds
• Blue diamonds
• Yellow diamonds
• Green diamonds

continue attracting collectors worldwide.

Coloured sapphires, emeralds and rubies are also making a strong comeback, particularly when paired with brilliant white diamonds in custom-designed jewellery.

Australian Argyle pink diamonds remain especially sought after due to their limited supply following the mine’s closure.

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Custom Jewellery Is Becoming the New Luxury

Increasingly, clients are choosing bespoke jewellery over mass-produced designs.

Rather than selecting a ring from a display cabinet, buyers are working directly with experienced jewellers to create something entirely unique.

Custom jewellery allows clients to choose:

• The perfect diamond
• Their preferred setting
• Precious metal
• Finger fit
• Personal design details

The result is jewellery that reflects the owner’s personality rather than current fashion trends.

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Exceptional Diamond Cut Is Receiving Greater Attention

Consumers have become far more knowledgeable.

Rather than concentrating solely on carat weight, many buyers now understand that cut quality has the greatest influence on a diamond’s beauty.

An expertly cut diamond delivers:

• Superior brilliance
• Greater fire
• Improved scintillation
• Better face-up appearance
• Stronger long-term desirability

This growing awareness has increased demand for premium cut grades and independently graded diamonds.

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Ethically Sourced Diamonds Matter More Than Ever

Responsible sourcing has become an expectation rather than a selling point.

Australian buyers increasingly ask where their diamonds originated and whether they comply with international ethical standards.

Reputable jewellers now provide:

• Independent diamond grading
• Transparent sourcing
• Conflict-free assurances
• Full certification

Confidence in a diamond’s identity has become almost as important as the diamond itself.

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Investment Pieces Are Back

Economic uncertainty has encouraged many Australians to purchase jewellery with lasting value.

Rather than fashion accessories, buyers are seeking pieces that can be enjoyed today while potentially becoming tomorrow’s family heirlooms.

Popular investment purchases include:

• Large certified natural diamonds
• Diamond tennis bracelets
• Solitaire pendants
• Classic stud earrings
• Fancy coloured diamonds

Unlike seasonal fashion, these pieces remain desirable generation after generation.

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Quality Craftsmanship Never Goes Out of Style

Perhaps the strongest trend of all is a renewed appreciation for exceptional craftsmanship.

Precision setting, hand finishing and thoughtful design separate truly luxurious jewellery from mass-produced alternatives.

At DCLA Diamond Exchange, we continue to see clients choosing quality over quantity—investing in beautifully crafted jewellery that celebrates the rarity of natural diamonds and the skill of the jeweller who created it.

Luxury is no longer defined simply by size or price.

It is defined by authenticity, exceptional craftsmanship and timeless beauty.

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Thoughts

The jewellery trends of 2026 demonstrate that true luxury is moving away from short-lived fashion and back towards enduring quality.

Natural diamonds, outstanding craftsmanship, ethical sourcing and personalised design are driving today’s luxury market. Buyers are becoming more informed and more selective, recognising that the finest jewellery is not only beautiful to wear but can also become a lasting family treasure.

Whether you’re purchasing an engagement ring, upgrading your diamond collection or creating a bespoke piece, choosing independently graded natural diamonds and expert craftsmanship remains the best investment in lasting beauty.

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Disclaimer: This article is intended for general information only and should not be considered financial or investment advice. Jewellery and diamond values vary according to market conditions, rarity, quality and consumer demand. Buyers should seek independent advice and obtain certification from recognised laboratories, such as DCLA, before making significant diamond or jewellery purchases.

Diamond Setting Styles: Beauty, Light Performance and Security – Choosing the Right Setting for Every Gem

 

When most people admire a beautiful diamond ring, they naturally focus on the gemstone itself. Yet one of the most important decisions in jewellery design isn’t the diamond—it’s how the diamond is set.

The setting influences far more than appearance. It determines how much light reaches the gemstone, how secure it will remain during everyday wear, how easily it can be cleaned, and even how large or brilliant it appears.

There is no single “best” setting. The ideal choice depends on the gemstone’s shape, durability, intended use, and the wearer’s lifestyle. Understanding the differences helps ensure both beauty and longevity.

The Purpose of a Jewellery Setting

A jewellery setting has three primary roles:

• Securely hold the gemstone.
• Maximise the stone’s visual appeal.
• Complement the overall design of the jewellery.

Finding the right balance between these objectives is the hallmark of good jewellery design.

Claw (Prong) Settings

The claw setting is the most recognised and widely used method of setting diamonds.

Small metal claws grip the gemstone around its girdle while leaving most of the stone exposed.

Advantages

One of the greatest strengths of a claw setting is light performance.

Because very little metal covers the diamond, light can enter from the top and sides before reflecting back through the crown. This often produces exceptional brilliance, fire and scintillation.

Other advantages include:

• Maximum light exposure
• Makes the diamond appear larger
• Easier to clean
• Classic and timeless appearance
• Suitable for almost every diamond shape

Disadvantages

With more of the diamond exposed, the stone is also more vulnerable to knocks.

Over many years of wear, claws can gradually wear down, bend or catch on clothing. If this occurs unnoticed, the security of the diamond may be compromised.

Regular inspections by a qualified jeweller are recommended, particularly for engagement rings worn every day.

Bezel Settings

A bezel setting surrounds the gemstone with a continuous rim of precious metal.

Rather than gripping the stone with claws, the metal wraps around the edge, securely locking it into place.

Advantages

Bezel settings offer exceptional protection.

The surrounding metal shields vulnerable edges and corners from accidental impacts, making them ideal for active lifestyles.

Benefits include:

• Outstanding security
• Excellent protection against chips
• Smooth profile that won’t catch on clothing
• Modern, elegant appearance
• Ideal for everyday wear

Light Performance

Because the metal surrounds the edge of the gemstone, slightly less light enters from the sides.

For well-cut diamonds this difference is often minimal, but coloured gemstones may appear deeper or richer in colour due to the enclosed design.

Many designers intentionally use bezels to enhance coloured gemstones such as sapphires, emeralds and rubies.

Pressure (Tension) Settings

One of the most visually striking styles is the pressure, or tension, setting.

Rather than traditional claws, the gemstone is held in place by carefully engineered pressure within the metal band itself, creating the illusion that the diamond is floating.

Advantages

• Contemporary appearance
• Maximum visibility of the gemstone
• Excellent light exposure
• Unique and minimalist design

Engineering Matters

Although they appear delicate, genuine tension settings are highly engineered.

The ring must be manufactured with extremely precise tolerances so the pressure remains constant throughout the life of the ring.

This is not a setting style suitable for every gemstone.

Only durable stones with sufficient hardness and toughness—such as diamonds and some sapphires—are generally considered appropriate.

How Light Affects Beauty

Many consumers assume that more exposed stone automatically means more sparkle.

While greater light exposure certainly helps, sparkle primarily comes from the quality of the diamond’s cut.

A poorly cut diamond in an open claw setting may still appear lifeless, while an exceptionally cut diamond in a bezel setting can remain brilliantly attractive.

The setting enhances beauty—but it cannot compensate for poor cutting.

Security vs Brilliance

Jewellery design often involves balancing competing priorities.

A six-claw solitaire may maximise brilliance while offering good security.

A bezel may sacrifice a small amount of side light but significantly increase protection.

The best choice depends on how the jewellery will be worn.

For engagement rings worn every day, security often becomes just as important as appearance.

Why Diamond Shape Changes Everything

Not every diamond shape performs equally in every setting.

Round Brilliant

The strongest and most versatile shape.

Works exceptionally well in claw, bezel and tension settings.

Princess Cut

Its pointed corners are vulnerable to chipping.

V-shaped claws or bezel settings provide much greater protection.

Emerald Cut

Large open facets emphasise clarity rather than sparkle.

Bezel settings often complement its elegant geometric appearance while protecting its cropped corners.

Pear, Marquise and Heart Shapes

These shapes all feature delicate points that require additional protection.

Specialised claws or partial bezels are commonly used to reduce the risk of damage.

Oval and Cushion Cuts

These shapes are extremely versatile and perform beautifully in most setting styles.

Coloured Gemstones Require Different Considerations

Unlike diamonds, many coloured gemstones have different hardness and toughness.

Emeralds, for example, are significantly more susceptible to chipping due to their natural internal fractures.

Tourmalines, opals and tanzanites also require greater protection than diamonds.

For these gemstones, bezel settings or protective claw arrangements often provide the safest long-term solution.

Lifestyle Should Guide the Design

A setting should suit the owner’s lifestyle as much as their personal taste.

Someone working with their hands every day may benefit from the security and low profile of a bezel setting.

A person seeking maximum brilliance in an engagement ring may prefer a traditional claw setting.

Athletes, healthcare workers and tradespeople often choose lower-profile settings that reduce the risk of accidental impact.

Craftsmanship Makes the Difference

Regardless of the setting style chosen, craftsmanship remains the most important factor.

Poorly positioned claws, uneven bezels or incorrectly engineered tension settings can all compromise both beauty and security.

An experienced jeweller understands how metal behaves over decades of wear and how different gemstone shapes respond to everyday use.

The best jewellery combines engineering with artistry, ensuring the setting protects the gemstone while allowing it to display its full beauty.

Final Thoughts

A diamond or coloured gemstone may be the centrepiece of a piece of jewellery, but the setting is what allows it to shine safely for generations.

Whether choosing a classic claw setting, a protective bezel or a striking tension design, the decision should always consider light performance, durability, gemstone shape and the wearer’s lifestyle.

Beautiful jewellery is not simply about selecting an exceptional gemstone—it is about designing a setting that allows that gemstone to remain secure, brilliant and admired for a lifetime.

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DCLA Note: Professional inspection of gemstone settings is recommended every 12 months, particularly for rings worn daily. Routine maintenance can identify worn claws, loose stones or metal fatigue before a gemstone is lost, helping preserve both the beauty and value of your jewellery.

Buying Jewellery for Babies and Young Children: What Every Parent and Grandparent Should Know

 

Giving a piece of jewellery to a newborn or young child is a tradition that has been passed down through generations. A small gold bracelet, an engraved pendant, or a delicate necklace often becomes a treasured keepsake that can remain in a family for decades.

However, while jewellery can be a beautiful and meaningful gift, it is important to remember that babies and young children have very different safety requirements than adults. What may appear to be a harmless piece of jewellery can present serious risks if worn too early.

At the Diamond Certification Laboratory of Australia (DCLA), we believe that understanding these risks helps families make informed decisions while preserving the sentimental value of these special gifts.

Necklaces – Best Kept as Keepsakes

One of the most common gifts given to infants is a gold necklace with a religious symbol, nameplate, or small pendant.

While these necklaces are beautiful, they are generally not recommended for babies or toddlers to wear.

Potential risks include:

• Strangulation if the necklace catches on furniture, bedding, prams or playground equipment.
• Choking hazards if a clasp, pendant or decorative element becomes detached.
• Injury if another child pulls on the necklace during play.
• Entanglement during sleep.

For these reasons, a necklace is best kept safely stored until the child is older and able to understand how to wear jewellery responsibly.

Bracelets – Not Always as Safe as They Look

Baby bangles and identity bracelets have been popular gifts for generations.

Although they may seem safer than necklaces, they can still present hazards.

A bracelet may:

• Catch on clothing, blankets or toys.
• Become trapped while crawling or climbing.
• Cause cuts or bruising if it is too tight.
• Slip off and become a choking hazard if too loose.

If a child is going to wear a bracelet, it should only be under close adult supervision and removed during sleep or active play.

Earrings

Parents often ask about ear piercing for young children.

From a jewellery safety perspective:

• Earrings should only be fitted once the ears have fully healed.
• Small plain studs are generally safer than hoops or dangling earrings.
• Hoop earrings can catch on clothing, towels or playground equipment.
• Larger decorative earrings may be pulled by curious children or playmates.

Professional piercing and high-quality hypoallergenic jewellery can help reduce the risk of infection or allergic reactions.

Rings

Children’s rings are generally not recommended for infants or toddlers.

A ring that fits today may become dangerously tight as fingers grow, restricting circulation.

Conversely, a loose ring can easily fall off and become a choking hazard.

Most jewellers recommend waiting until a child is significantly older before wearing rings regularly.

What Makes a Good Gift?

If you’re looking for a meaningful jewellery gift for a newborn or young child, consider pieces that are intended to become lifelong keepsakes rather than everyday jewellery.

Excellent choices include:

• An engraved gold or silver identity bracelet to be worn later in childhood.
• A quality gold pendant kept safely until the child is older.
• A birthstone pendant.
• A commemorative coin or small investment-grade gold or silver piece to celebrate their birth.
• A jewellery box containing a family heirloom to be passed on in the future.

These gifts retain all of their sentimental value without exposing the child to unnecessary risks.

If You Receive Jewellery as a Gift

Many parents receive jewellery from grandparents, relatives and close friends shortly after the birth of a child.

While the gesture is thoughtful and generous, there is no obligation to have the baby wear the jewellery immediately.

In fact, the safest option is often to:

• Store the jewellery securely.
• Keep any certificates, receipts and valuations.
• Photograph the item for insurance purposes.
• Present it to the child when they are mature enough to wear it safely.

The gift remains just as meaningful, and in many cases becomes even more special when the child is old enough to appreciate its significance.

Choosing Quality Matters

When purchasing jewellery intended to become a lifelong keepsake, quality is far more important than fashion.

Look for:

• Solid precious metals rather than plated jewellery.
• Secure soldering and high-quality craftsmanship.
• Reliable clasps and settings.
• Appropriate hallmarks indicating metal purity.
• Pieces made by reputable jewellers.

Well-made jewellery can last for generations, becoming a treasured family heirloom.

The DCLA Recommendation

Jewellery given at birth is often one of the first heirlooms a child will ever own. While these gifts carry enormous sentimental value, they should always be balanced against the child’s safety.

For infants and toddlers, jewellery is generally best regarded as a keepsake rather than an item for everyday wear. Waiting until a child is older significantly reduces the risks associated with necklaces, bracelets, rings and earrings while ensuring that the gift can be enjoyed safely for many years to come.

A beautiful piece of jewellery should create lifelong memories—not unnecessary hazards. Choosing quality, storing it safely, and waiting until the appropriate age allows families to enjoy both the emotional and lasting value that fine jewellery was always intended to provide.

Disclaimer: This article is provided for general educational and informational purposes only and should not be considered medical, paediatric, or safety advice. Recommendations regarding children’s jewellery may vary depending on a child’s age, development, and individual circumstances. Parents and caregivers should always follow current product safety guidelines and consult an appropriate healthcare or child safety professional if they have concerns about a child’s use of jewellery. DCLA recommends that jewellery intended for infants and young children be selected with safety as the primary consideration and used under appropriate adult supervision where applicable.