When it comes to buying jewelry, many people opt for traditional retail options. However, custom jewelry offers a range of benefits and personalization that are not often considered. In this discussion, we will explore the advantages of custom jewelry over traditional retail options for the jewelry buying consumer.
Custom Jewelry vs. Traditional Retail
Personalization: Custom jewelry offers the opportunity to create a one-of-a-kind piece that is tailored to the individual's preferences and style. According to a study published in the Journal of Consumer Research, personalization increases consumer enjoyment and satisfaction (Lemon & Verhoef, 2016). With custom jewelry, customers have control over every aspect of the design, from the design influences, choice of gemstones, and the metal used.
Quality: Custom jewelry is often of higher quality than mass-produced jewelry sold in traditional retail settings. According to a study published in the Journal of Consumer Psychology, consumers understand custom-made products are often of higher quality than mass-produced items (Naylor et al., 2012). Custom jewelry is made with attention to detail and quality, ensuring that each piece is unique and built to last, and designed with the clients specifications and specific needs in mind.
Ethical Considerations: Custom jewelry can offer a more ethical option compared to traditional retail options. Many traditional retailers source their materials in bulk where the source verification of diamonds and gemstones is difficult at scale. Custom jewelers, on the other hand, are often committed to ethical and sustainable practices and are able to verify each custom peice is produced with ethically sourced material. According to a study published in the Journal of Business Ethics, consumers are willing to pay more for ethically produced products (Boulstridge & Carrigan, 2000).
Longevity: Custom jewelry often has more sentimental value than mass-produced jewelry bought in a store. According to a study published in the Journal of Marketing Research, consumers value unique and personally meaningful products more than mass-produced items (Kim & McGill, 2011). A custom piece of jewelry can be passed down through generations, serving as a reminder of a special moment or relationship.
Price: Custom jewelry is always created for the individual based upon their specifications. Due to the lack of extra inventory needed, custom jewelers can reduce the cost of their business and operate more efficiently passing the savings on to their customers. Customers shouldn't pay extra to cover the unsold jewelry in traditional retail stores. Only pay for what you want!
In conclusion, custom jewelry offers a range of benefits over traditional retail options. Personalization, quality, ethical considerations, longevity, and price are all factors that make custom jewelry a smart and worthwhile investment.
Sources:
Lemon, K. N., & Verhoef, P. C. (2016). Understanding customer experience throughout the customer journey. Journal of Marketing Research, 53(5), 742-758.
Naylor, R. W., Lamberton, C. P., & West, P. M. (2012). Beyond the "Like" button: The impact of mere virtual presence on brand evaluations and purchase intentions in social media settings. Journal of Consumer Research, 39(3), 365-379.
Boulstridge, E., & Carrigan, M. (2000). Do consumers really care about corporate responsibility? Highlighting the attitude–behaviour gap. Journal of Communication Management, 4(4), 355-368.
Kim, J., & McGill, A. L. (2011). The effect of framing price promotion messages on consumers' perceptions and purchase behaviors. Journal of Marketing Research, 48(6), 1090-1102.