5 Myths About Men's Real Necklaces That Cost Me $200

I used to believe these myths. I once bought a stylish-looking chain online for just $30. Within a week, my neck had a green tint, and the plating started to chip away. I quickly learned that trying to save money upfront only meant buying the same cheap item over and over. In the end, I wasted $200 by following bad advice.

Let me set the record straight. When you invest in quality jewelry, you're buying more than just metal. You're paying for service, peace of mind, and a piece that endures. Here’s what they don’t tell you about shopping for quality accessories:

• Quality Service: You receive genuine assistance in finding the perfect fit.
• Lasting Materials: The metal won’t fade, chip, or discolor your skin.
• Unique Design: You get a piece that truly reflects your style, not just mass-produced items.

Myth #1: You Don't Need Expert Service for Jewelry

The Lie: Who needs a jeweler? Just click 'Add to Cart' and save time.

This mindset treats jewelry like simple hardware. It’s not. If you purchase a complex or custom item based solely on a blurry product photo, you’re setting yourself up for disappointment. When it arrives, the size might be wrong, or the clasp could break immediately—and you’ll have no one to turn to.

The Truth: Real quality requires expert guidance.

When you invest in a serious piece—even a quality men’s necklace—you benefit from a human touch. Take Gianna, for example, whose customer service was described as "absolutely top notch." She went out of her way to accommodate specific needs. This level of service shows a commitment to your satisfaction, not just a quick sale. A good expert ensures the piece fits both your body and your lifestyle.

Verdict: Choose shops known for excellent customer service. Read reviews that mention the staff, not just the product photos.

Myth #2: Quality Doesn't Matter for Small Accessories

The Lie: A simple necklace or bracelet doesn’t need high-end materials. Cheap plating is perfectly fine.

This is exactly how I wasted $200. I bought inexpensive chains, thinking they were disposable fashion items. The cheap pieces used inferior metals, quickly lost their shine, and even caused skin irritation. The cost of constantly replacing them added up fast.

The Truth: Quality ensures longevity and comfort.

People who invest in high-quality jewelry pay attention to the details. One customer mentioned being "captivated by Alice Cicolini’s trunk show" and working directly with the designer on a custom set. This focus on craftsmanship guarantees that the piece is both unique and durable. If the materials were cheap, no one would bother with custom adjustments. Always look for materials like 316L Stainless Steel or better. If the seller doesn’t specify the metal, assume it’s low quality.

Verdict: Always check the material grade. If the seller hides the metal type, don’t buy it.

Myth #3: Customization is Only for Expensive Engagement Rings

The Lie: Customization is complicated, overly expensive, and reserved for 'forever rings.' Your everyday piece should be off-the-shelf.

Many guys think they just need whatever chain is trending. But trends fade. A custom look, however, lasts a lifetime. Cheap online stores typically sell the same items everyone else has, with no options for adjusting the fit, length, or materials.

The Truth: Customization ensures a perfect fit for any piece of jewelry.

Customization is about making the jewelry seamlessly complement you. For instance, one customer’s fiancé customized a band to fit perfectly with their unique engagement ring. Dana was described as "amazing and thoughtful" throughout the process. This shows that reputable jewelers go the extra mile to ensure the final product fits perfectly, whether it’s a complex pendant or a simple charm. If you can customize the length or clasp, you’re getting a better, more personal product.

Verdict: Look for jewelers who allow adjustments to length, width, or finish. A personalized fit always feels better.

Myth #4: The Jewelry Shopping Process Should Be Fast

The Lie: The best jewelry purchases are made in five minutes, without a second thought.

If you rush the purchase, you skip crucial steps like checking reviews, confirming sizing, and understanding the return policy. Hasty shopping often leads to buyer’s remorse when you realize the chain is too short or the pendant feels uncomfortably heavy.

The Truth: Thoughtful shopping leads to finding your "forever pieces."

Customer feedback highlights the importance of a thorough process. Dana and Alice were "generous with their time" to ensure everything was perfect. The customer felt fortunate to own the pieces. This satisfaction comes from a thoughtful, unhurried process—not a rushed one. When you invest time, you gain confidence in your choice.

Verdict: Slow down. A quality jewelry purchase is an investment. If the process feels rushed, the quality is likely compromised.

Myth #5: All Shops Value Creativity and Craftsmanship

The Lie: Every store selling jewelry cares about the artistry behind each piece.

Most large online retailers focus on moving inventory quickly. They rarely care about the design’s origin or the quality of the finish. They sell disposable goods. If they offer cheap plating and poor customer service, they’re running a volume-based business, not one dedicated to craft.

The Truth: Reputable shops prioritize class and unique creativity.

The Greenwich Street shop was praised for being "brimming with class and creativity." They feature designers and host special shows, meaning they carefully curate their selection. They believe in the value of their pieces. When a shop values creativity, it ensures that every item—whether a simple braided bracelet or a sophisticated men’s necklace—is well-made.

Verdict: Shop at businesses that value craftsmanship, not just sales volume.

The Real Deal: How to Avoid Wasting Money

The biggest lesson I learned is that cheap jewelry always costs more in the long run. You pay for replacements, deal with skin irritation, and lose confidence when your piece looks worn out too quickly.

To avoid spending $200 on junk that fades within a month, follow these simple steps:

1. Step 1: Check the Material. Specifically ask for 316L Stainless Steel, solid gold, or sterling silver. Avoid anything labeled "alloy" or "plated" without a clear base metal listed.
2. Step 2: Check the Size. Don’t rely on model photos. Look at the width in millimeters (mm) and the exact chain length in inches.
3. Step 3: Check Buyer Photos. Read reviews that include pictures showing how the jewelry holds up after several months of wear.
4. Step 4: Seek Service. Buy from jewelers who offer genuine customer support and customization options.

If you want a piece that lasts and retains its value, start your search with a reputable dealer who values craftsmanship, like those you can find browsing the selections at BlingCharming Home. Don’t let these common myths cost you hundreds of dollars like they did me.

Don't Believe the Lies

The jewelry industry often promotes the idea that fast fashion applies to metal accessories. It doesn’t. Metal accessories are different. When you buy cheap, you’re getting thin plating and nonexistent customer service.

Focus on service and quality materials. Your skin will thank you, your wallet will thank you, and most importantly, you’ll have a piece you can wear confidently for years—not just a few weeks.