How to Buy: Top Tips for Investing in Jewellery & Gems

May 24, 2023

By Livia Primo Lack

4 min read

Four industry experts share their professional insights on the most important factors to consider when evaluating a gem or jewel for purchase.

Today, the world of jewellery and gems is more accessible than ever before. With social media at our fingertips, we are bombarded with eye-catching pieces that are purchasable at a click of a button or through a single direct message. Rare antiques, unique pieces and impressive gemstones can be admired and even digitally worn via the web. With so many impressive pieces displayed on an ever-growing digital platform, it is hard to know what to take seriously. At Katerinaperez.com we were lucky enough to speak with four industry experts across various sectors of the fine jewellery world, who shared with us their must-know pieces of advice when deciding to purchase a piece of jewellery or a loose gemstone. Let’s find out more…

Christie's The Rock diamond, weighing 228.31.cts, is the largest white diamond ever to be sold at auction

Christie's The Rock diamond, weighing 228.31.cts, is the largest white diamond ever to be sold at auction

François Curiel, Chairman of Christie’s Europe

François Curiel is an auctioneer, jewellery specialist and Chairman of the famous auction house Christie’s in Europe. Having worked for the British auction house for over 50 years, he is one of those lucky individuals who has spent his life studying some of the world’s rarest and most valuable jewels and gems. Here is what he had to say on the subject.

Diamond and sapphire tiara sold at auction at Christie’s

Diamond and sapphire tiara sold at auction at Christie’s

  The Historic Marie-Antoinette Diamonds, sold at Christie’s

The Historic Marie-Antoinette Diamonds, sold at Christie’s

 28.86 carat D-colour diamond ring sold by Christie’s in June 2020 which set a new record for online auction sales

28.86 carat D-colour diamond ring sold by Christie’s in June 2020 which set a new record for online auction sales

 Diamond necklace sold at the Christie's New York sale

Diamond necklace sold at the Christie's New York sale

 David Morris High Jewellery necklace in white gold, opal, coloured gemstones and diamonds

David Morris High Jewellery necklace in white gold, opal, coloured gemstones and diamonds

 David Morris Oval Diamond Tetris Bangle in rose gold, white gold and diamond

David Morris Oval Diamond Tetris Bangle in rose gold, white gold and diamond

 David Morris Confetti Opal Lapis Ring

David Morris Confetti Opal Lapis Ring

 David Morris Paraiba and Diamond Earrings

David Morris Paraiba and Diamond Earrings

 David Morris Diamond Bangle

David Morris Diamond Bangle

 David Morris Natural Pink Pearl and Rose Cut White Diamond Earrings

David Morris Natural Pink Pearl and Rose Cut White Diamond Earrings

 Ronald Abram 20.92-ct D colour Internally Flawless Antique Cushion Cut Diamond Ring

Ronald Abram 20.92-ct D colour Internally Flawless Antique Cushion Cut Diamond Ring

 Ronald Abram 42.88-ct Asscher Cut Fancy Intense Yellow Diamond Ring

Ronald Abram 42.88-ct Asscher Cut Fancy Intense Yellow Diamond Ring

 Ronald Abram 10.24-ct Fancy Intense Purplish-Pink Diamond Ring

Ronald Abram 10.24-ct Fancy Intense Purplish-Pink Diamond Ring

 Ronald Abram Old Mine Diamond Necklace featuring 121.06-cts of antique cut diamonds

Ronald Abram Old Mine Diamond Necklace featuring 121.06-cts of antique cut diamonds

 Moussaieff earrings in white gold, ruby and diamond

Moussaieff earrings in white gold, ruby and diamond

 Moussaieff necklace in white gold, sapphire and diamond

Moussaieff necklace in white gold, sapphire and diamond

Feminine Finesse: Women at the Bench Crafting Jewellery Masterpieces

I am sure all of you have heard incredible things about the power of the human touch. The same can be said for handcrafted jewellery - an artisan's hands can breathe life into metal, transforming it into something precious that embodies beauty and charm

by Hirshi Sujanti

Slithering Success: The Best Year of the Snake Watches for Chinese New Year 2025

by Sarah Jordan

Knock on Wood: Precious Wooden Jewellery for Luck and Grounding 

Would you consider swapping gold and gemstones for wood?

by Rachael Taylor

Glorious Garnets: Why This Lesser-Known Gemstone is Undergoing a Renaissance

Found in the jewellery of Egyptian pharaohs and ancient Romans, the Victorians adored the red variety of garnet for which this gemstone is best known. Jewellery in the 19th century wasn’t just an accessory; it was a vehicle of expression

by Claire Roberts

Heavy Metal: The Trend For Bold Gold Medallions Gathers Pace

Medallions infused with meaning are hot property right now, as jewellery lovers fall for the symbolism and style of these statement designs.

by Rachael Taylor

New Horizons: Building a New Life in Hong Kong with Valentina Fine Jewellery 

Life can take you in unexpected directions – this is one thing I know for sure. Sometimes, though, these directions can lead to hugely exciting, life-altering events!

by Sarah Jordan

Star of Singapore: Exploring the Incredible Legacy of B.P. de Silva 

The brand’s heritage traces back more than 150 years and it is now run by the fifth generation of the founding family. It is a real destination.

by Katerina Perez

Subscription banner

Katerina PerezClub

Step into a universe devoted to jewellery that has been especially curated to indulge your passion, impart knowledge and inspire the next steps on your jewellery journey. Discover exclusive content you won’t find elsewhere.

join the club

Latest Stories

Add articles and images to your favourites. Just

Gem Focus:Brazil Gem Commerce

Discover a company specialising in the cutting and trading of Brazilian and African precious gems, including Paraiba, rubellite and morganite

by Katerina Perez

Continue Reading

Ask Katerina:Diamond Jewellery Styling Tips for Modern Dressing

Here are some of the answers I gave during the presentation to aid your jewellery dressing…

by Katerina Perez

Jewellery Insights straight to your inbox

Style Guide

By using this website, you agree to the storing of cookies on your device to enhance site navigation, analyze site usage, and assist in our marketing efforts. View our Privacy Policy for more information.