Gold pricing has been rapidly approaching the $3000/oz threshold, putting pressure on jewelry pricing for those deciding on gold.
Clearly, gold has proven to be an "investment" aspect in fine jewelry- both lab and mined diamonds don't enjoy the certainty of value increasing. It seems that the jewelry and diamonds that have an investment potential are pieces with provenance, or a designer with history (think Bvlgari, Cartier, Van Cleef and Arpels, etc.). If you are seeking to purchase a piece of jewelry with family heirloom capacity, look no further than some of the big exclusive names in jewelry (and be ready to pay the price).
That aside, there are ways to circumvent price increases. While 18kt gold seems to be the karat choice of importers, also available is 10kt gold, and of course, 14kt gold. Both options provide a lower price point, while still affording the lifetime enjoyment of the gold metal. In fact, the increased alloys added to gold strengthen the material- not buttery soft like 18kt or 22kt, but gold nonetheless, with the same appeal, and lifetime potential.
Finding a spectacular piece of jewelry is worth the hunt, and a brand name isn't needed if you're seeking quality- opportunities abound. Just bear in mind that all types of gold jewelry will be impacted by the increase in gold- now might be the time to find your favorite piece. Chart courtesy of GovMint.
