Pros and Cons of Buying Jewelry on Consignment

If you want designer jewelry at a more affordable price, shopping on consignment is the best option. Consignment stores sell fine jewelry and high-end costume pieces at a fraction of their original cost. That means you get top-notch, unique pieces for less, so you can finally have the jewelry box of your dreams.

Most of our shoppers at Current Boutique are obsessed with buying jewelry on consignment. But we receive some common questions about the pros and cons of consignment jewelry, so we wanted to address these in a blog in case our readers have those questions too. In this article, we’ll explore the advantages and disadvantages of buying jewelry on consignment, so you can make the right choice for your wardrobe and wallet.

What are the pros of buying jewelry on consignment?

1. High quality

If you shop for jewelry at Current Boutique and other high-end consignors, you’ll find luxury, high-quality pieces. We only sell designer jewelry pieces that have undergone a rigorous authentication process. We only sell brand names because designers have consistent, reliable craftsmanship and materials. That means you can feel confident you’re purchasing genuine, high-quality pieces every time you buy with Current Boutique. 

Moreover, we only sell those pieces that are in excellent condition. The previous owners cared for and valued these pieces. And now it’s your turn to give that piece another chapter of its life!

2. Lower prices

One of the greatest advantages of buying jewelry on consignment is that it’s often significantly cheaper than buying equivalent pieces new. Consignment jewelry is cheaper because it has been previously owned, not because it’s lower quality. That means you’re getting the same quality and brand names but at a fraction of their original ticket price.

3. Unique pieces

Buying jewelry on consignment is the best way to make your jewelry collection feel more curated to you and your style. Purchasing your jewelry from big box stores not only leaves you with poor quality pieces that will probably turn your skin green, but they’re also mass produced so everyone else has the same jewelry.

However, buying jewelry on consignment gives you access to rare, unique pieces that can’t be found in a traditional jewelry store or big box store. This is a great way to get your hands on something special that speaks to your sense of style. You may even find jewelry pieces that are no longer produced, so they will continue to increase in value. (Talk about a good investment!)

4. Sustainability

Buying consignment jewelry is more environmentally friendly than buying new pieces. By purchasing pre-owned pieces, you’re helping reduce the demand for new jewelry production, which can have a hefty environmental impact. You’re also extending the life of existing pieces, which reduces waste. Every purchase from a consignment store contributes to a more sustainable fashion industry.

Read: 7 Trends in Sustainable Fashion in 2023

5. Lower risk

New consignment shoppers may be worried about the “risk” of buying consignment jewelry. It can feel like the piece may not be authentic or genuine if you’re not buying it directly from the original retailer.

But if you buy from high-end consignors like Current Boutique, you never have to worry about this. All the items we sell have been inspected and evaluated, and we only stock those pieces we can verify as genuine. Check out our authenticity promise to learn more.

Want to buy jewelry on consignment? Check out our 11 consignment shopping hacks to get the most out of your purchases and experience.

What are the cons of buying jewelry on consignment?

1. Limited selection

Consignment stores carry inventory that comes directly from sellers. That means there may be only one or two pieces of a particular brand or style at any given time. If you’re looking for a specific type of jewelry or design, you may have to revisit the consignment store a few times to get the exact piece you have in mind.

With that said, half the fun of consignment shopping is the treasure hunt! Check out our Just In racks to browse the newest, hottest finds.

2. Authenticity 

Not all consignment stores offer an authenticity guarantee like Current Boutique does. That means there’s a risk the pieces are not genuine. It’s important to purchase from reputable consignment stores that offer documentation or certification of the jewelry you’re buying, especially for fine jewelry.

3. No warranty

Sometimes when you buy directly from a jewelry retailer, they may offer a warranty or guarantee on the pieces. That means the retailer will repair or replace the piece if there are any defects or issues. Most consigners can’t offer this kind of promise.

However, if you are buying a piece on consignment, that jewelry item has likely already been in use. Any defects or issues that would have been covered under a warranty would probably already have shown themselves. The pieces that end up on consignment shelves have already withstood the test of time and passed rigorous authenticity checks. 

4. Condition concerns

Pre-owned jewelry may show wear and tear. Most consigners will post a “condition” on the tag or website, so you have a good sense of how much wear and tear is on the piece. (For example, Current Boutique has the designations of new with tags, excellent, very good, and good.)

If you are buying from a thrift store or an unknown consigner, you may want to learn about how to spot signs of damage on jewelry before you buy. Learn how to spot fine jewelry when purchasing on consignment here.

Should you buy jewelry on consignment?

There are more advantages than disadvantages to buying jewelry on consignment. If you’re buying from a reputable consignment shop like Current Boutique, you don’t have to worry about authenticity or conditions concerns. You can feel confident in your purchase and enjoy your new jewelry piece for years. Buying jewelry on consignment is a great option if you’re looking for unique, designer pieces at an affordable price.

Start browsing our recent jewelry pieces here to find a hidden gem for your jewelry box!