It’s a common refrain, mostly attributed to the sitcom Parks and Recreation.
But what if your budget doesn’t allow you to treat yourself, or your loved one, in the way you want to? Does that mean you have to count out buying any kind of jewelry or luxury goods?
Fortunately, no. With a little bit of ingenuity, and some savings, you can find yourself buying jewelry even if you think you can’t afford it.
Remember, jewelry is an asset, and you can ensure you’re creating one for your family or loved one by purchasing it.
Read on for more information on how to be boujee on a budget.
Avoid Going to the Retailer Directly
If you’re looking to buy jewelry on a budget, going directly to the retailer isn’t going to be your best bet. The prices are going to be higher, and they aren’t likely to have any older models. Instead, all you’ll get is the newest sparkles and watches that all cost an arm and a leg.
In order to avoid paying through the nose for jewelry, seek out alternatives to buying through the retailer itself.
When Buying Jewelry, Go to the Retailer Sometimes
Okay, so we said don’t go to the retailer. But there are some times when it can be acceptable. For instance, some credit cards or other rewards programs will allow you to cash in on jewelry or at particular stores.
Additionally, you may be able to earn loyalty points to certain stores that will reduce the cost of the jewelry dramatically. Or, you might happen upon a half-price or going out of business sale.
In those circumstances, going to the retailer is totally fine and may actually offer you the best deal.
Consider Lab-Grown Alternatives
When people think of gems or diamonds, they’re often narrowed down to those that grow in mines or underground. They don’t always think about the fact that you can purchase lab-grown duplicates that are just as beautiful.
Lab-grown gems are created, as the name suggests, in a lab. But because they are man-made, they are a bit less valuable than their natural counterparts. Lab-grown gems are also almost flawless, which sounds great. But, that does take down the value of them because naturally occurring gems are not completely clear.
Still, lab-grown gems are environmentally friendly, as well as human rights friendly. This is because many companies, unfortunately, exploit people to obtain the gems or precious metals from the earth.
The only downside of a lab-grown diamond or gem is that it won’t be worth as much as a natural alternative. The price reflects that, and you won’t be able to sell it on for a ton of money if times get tough.
But, they are still an asset, because these pieces are real gems and metals, they’re just made by people. For some people, they may prefer a clearer gem or a nicer piece of metal, and this will do it.
Go Antique
Have you ever gone looking for something unique at an antique store? Well, you might be able to score amazing jewelry that’s not only beautiful, but also sometimes less expensive than new jewelry. It’s also older, and many times, it has an awesome story behind it that you can pass on to the person you’re giving it to.
Consider buying a piece of jewelry from your favorite, or your loved one’s favorite, period in history. This will definitely make a stunning a completely original piece that your family member or loved one can wear again and again.
Buy Used
So, maybe you want a piece that’s still modern, but isn’t the same price as a new one direct from the retailer. If that’s the case, you can consider purchasing used jewelry.
If you’re looking for a used engagement or wedding ring, you might be surprised at what a low price people will be willing to part with them for. This is often because if people divorce or split up, they’re not particularly interested in having a reminder hanging around.
Instead, they’d rather just move on, and often, without this token of their relationship.
You can also find used jewelry of almost any kind. From earrings to necklaces to used omega watches, you’ll certainly find something that suits your taste.
There are plenty of websites online, from Craigslist to eBay where you can purchase some of these pieces. But, if there is no guarantee of authenticity, proceed with caution. Pretty much anything you can buy of value, you’ll need to exercise a fair amount of judgment. Swindlers and crooks are always lurking in the shadows, so make sure you know how to verify authenticity before making big-ticket purchases.
Go to an Estate Sale
Estate sales are often an excellent place to score jewelry. They’re advertised in newspapers and sometimes online. For the uninitiated, an estate sale is when a family holds a giant garage-sale style sale after someone has passed away. While the family has most likely picked the best or most valuable jewelry, you can still find some pretty good pieces strewn here and there if you know where to look.
Getting Your Jewelry On
Buying jewelry doesn’t have to mean parting with a huge amount of money. With a bit of savings and a bit of savvy, you’ll find the perfect items.
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