Jewelry: small items, large differences

What to look at, in order

Start with the clasp. A lobster clasp with a proper spring and a soldered jump ring will survive daily wear; a folded wire clasp on a thin ring will not. Ask for a close-up of the clasp closed and open.

Then plating. Colour consistency across a whole chain — not just the pendant — tells you whether the finish is even. Finally, the setting: prongs should sit flush and symmetrical, and stones should not rattle when the piece is moved.

• Clasp close-up, closed and open
• Chain links along the whole length, not just near the pendant
• Prong or bezel setting at high magnification
• A short video with the piece moving, to catch loose stones

Shipping and declaration

Jewelry is small and light, so it consolidates well. It is also the category most likely to attract customs attention per gram, which is why an accurate declaration matters more here than almost anywhere else. Photograph everything you received before removing any tags.