Have you ever wondered why fine jewellery commands such a high price point? If you’re investing good money on jewellery, you need to make sure the pieces you select will stand the test of time. Here’s our guide to the difference between fine, semi-fine and demi-fine jewellery (and why our Fine Jewellery options are the best for you!).

What is Fine Jewellery?

For longevity and retention of value, fine jewellery is the way to go. Crafted from precious metals including solid gold, sterling silver and platinum, fine jewellery is the highest quality on the market – and the most durable. Fine jewellery utilises natural gemstones such as diamonds, South Sea Pearls or precious gems and is the ‘purest’ jewellery you’ll find.
Often reserved to mark milestone events such as a great harvest or the birth of a child, or gifts for birthdays or anniversaries, fine jewellery is also great for those who wear their jewellery all the time and want it to last. An heirloom piece of jewellery will be handed down for generations. So if you want a pair of earrings that you can leave on forever (like a pair of diamond studs) fine jewellery will provide your answer.

Fine Jewellery

• Is made with the highest quality precious metals and gemstones
• Will not tarnish (so long as you look after it!)
• Can be repaired and resized as needed
• Carries the highest price-tag… but is well worth it!

What is Semi-Fine Jewellery?

Designed for those who want mid-range jewellery on a budget, semi-fine Jewellery mimics the style of fine jewellery.

Semi-fine jewellery uses lower-quality metals such as gold plated or gold filled alongside semi-precious gemstones such as quartz, agate and freshwater pearls, or lab-created precious gemstones. While not as pure as fine jewellery, the base metal of semi-fine jewellery is usually sterling silver, so it’s still made to last longer than cheaper-end fashion jewellery.

One thing to be careful of with semi-fine jewellery is proper care. Avoid sleeping in semi and demi jewellery or wearing it in the shower, or you may end up wearing away the plating.

Semi-Fine Jewellery:

• Gives the look of fine jewellery at a cheaper price point
• Requires more care than fine jewellery
• Is most often seen in commercial shop windows

What You Need to Know about Demi-Fine Jewellery

Demi-Fine Jewellery is the new kid on the block, making waves for its affordability and modern style. Bridging the gap between semi-fine jewellery and fashion or costume jewellery, demi-fine jewellery is made using gold-plated silver or low-carat gold combined with semi-precious stones.

Demi-Fine Jewellery is all about cheap modern luxury, capitalising on the ‘more is more’ trend of stackable rings and mixed textures, with unique contemporary designs.

Demi-Fine pieces don’t usually mimic the style and look of Fine Jewellery – it’s more for those who love the look of modern pieces but want something that’ll last longer than cheaper fashion jewellery.

Demi-Fine Jewellery:

• Is one of the cheapest jewellery options on the market
• Favours modern styles over traditional designs
• Is built to last while wearing for short stints, but not for extended periods
• Is ideal for those looking for a step up from costume jewellery, but can’t yet afford fine jewellery

Fine Jewellery, Semi-Fine Jewellery and Demi-Fine Jewellery

Now you’re armed with the knowledge about which jewellery is which you can make the best decision on jewellery for you. At Palomino Jewels, we believe in handcrafting modern designs using only the highest quality materials using Australian gold, South Sea Pearls and gemstones.

Our fine jewellery collections are built to last a lifetime, you can feel it in the quality and strength of each piece, ideal as heirloom jewellery to hand down. With our contemporary style, Palomino Jewels prove that fine jewellery can be super cute and valuable. See our full range here which includes Equestrian Jewellery, South Sea Pearls and Diamonds.