Read this before you purchase another gold-plated necklace. I've learned the hard way. I bought inexpensive jewelry that looked stunning online, only for it to arrive as complete rubbish. It held up for about three days before turning my skin green.
Let me be frank. I purchased cheap jewelry from an obscure website, right after trying to save money on a shoddy, imitation designer item—similar to a poorly made $50 beanie cap. I thought I was getting a bargain on the necklace, but I ended up deeply disappointed.
The online photos displayed a sturdy, substantial-looking chain. What I received felt like aluminum foil. The clasp broke immediately. After waiting three weeks for delivery, the piece was useless. Their customer service was non-existent; none of my emails received a reply.
This is the typical outcome when you hunt for the absolute lowest price:
My previous failed purchase was exactly like that. I learned my lesson: trying to save five dollars cost me fifty in wasted junk. I had the same uneasy feeling when considering the Classic Moon Star Crystal Pendant Necklace, but this time I was determined to find a quality piece.
Verdict: If the price seems too good to be true, it is. If the seller doesn't specify the metal type, assume it's inferior and avoid it.
After that initial disaster, I almost gave up entirely. I assumed all gold-toned jewelry sold online was a scam. I resented the wasted time and money and lost all trust in online advertisements. I convinced myself that quality meant spending thousands at a high-end mall boutique.
However, I needed a gift for someone special. I couldn't risk giving something that would tarnish in front of them. The item had to look luxurious and durable. I didn't want a repeat of last Christmas, when I tried to buy a nice beanie cap that fell apart.
So, I began searching for stores where customers specifically praised the service. I wanted real names and tangible proof that actual people were there to help.