If you are planning to launch a jewellery retail business and you have your sights set on the upper end of the market, you will need to find a reputable jewellery manufacturer to create pieces to order. This is not an easy thing to do and when looking at hi-end jewellery factories, there is a lot to consider.
Here are a few things that you should expect from an established jewellery factory.
- Non-Disclosure Agreement – This is absolutely essential to protect your image and all staff at the factory would be under instructions that client details are not to be shared with anyone outside of the business premises. This is normal in this industry and if a factory does not produce such an agreement, this should raise alarm bells, as it is considered normal practice within the industry.
- Gemstone Certification – All gemstones should be accompanied by GIA certification, which the manufacturer obtains after the stones have been cut. When you are at the design stage, the jeweller would invite you to select the gemstones from a wide selection and these gemstones can be acquired at trade prices. Your clients will expect to receive gemstone certificates from a reputable governing body.
- Access to a Jewellery Design Team – As you would expect, the custom jewellery manufacturer would have a talented design team who are ready to take your concept and turn it into stunning jewellery.
- Access to High-Quality Gemstones – There is an exclusive wholesale gemstone market that the general public do not have access to and when you introduce a design, part of the process is gemstone selection. Prices would be lower than retail, allowing you to add your mark up to the finished product. Here are a few tips when shopping for a diamond engagement ring.
- Long Product Warranty – The jewellery maker should issue you with a comprehensive warranty on all pieces as a matter of course. The standard of workmanship should be extremely high, with exceptional quality control to assure than nothing is overlooked. When a piece is complete, you will be invited to inspect the jewellery prior to accepting it.
- Dependability – It is very important that deadlines are met and that the manufacturer is reliable in every respect. If you promise your client that their item will be ready for collection on a specific date, this should stand, with the maker delivering the consignment to you in good time to present to the client. It is important that you build a solid relationship with your jewellery manufacturer, as they are a critical aspect of your business.
- Price Transparency – When you are invoiced, all details of the cost should be clearly shown, so that you know where your money has gone. Of course, you would prepare a different invoice for your client, with the revised retail price.
There are some top-rated hi-end jewellery factories in Thailand and start by browsing a few websites, then you can arrange a tour of their facility and begin negotiations.