Imitation necklace sets vary widely in weight. A light everyday set with a short chain and small earrings can weigh only a few dozen grams, while a heavy kundan or temple bridal set with a choker, long necklace and large earrings can weigh several hundred grams. The right weight depends on the style, the occasion and your customer.
Weight matters because it drives the price, the comfort of the piece and the freight cost, so it belongs on the specification.
What makes a set heavy
- Solid cast brass versus hollow or stamped parts.
- The number and size of stones, beads and pearls.
- Layered or multi-strand designs.
- Large earrings, which are part of the set weight.
- Thick backing plates used to hold kundan stones.
Weight and price
Brass and copper are bought by weight, so a heavier set uses more metal and costs more. Some makers quote partly by weight for this reason, as explained in how imitation jewellery prices are calculated. Two sets that look alike in a photo can differ a lot in weight and price, so always compare quotes at the same weight.
Weight and comfort
Western customers are often used to light fashion jewellery and may find a heavy Indian set uncomfortable for a long evening. Diaspora customers buying for weddings usually accept more weight. Earrings are the most sensitive part, since all their weight hangs from the earlobe.
Makers can reduce weight by using hollow castings, thinner backing, lighter stones or alloy instead of brass, without changing the look much.
Putting weight on the specification
Record the weight of the approved sample for each piece and allow a small tolerance on the purchase order. Then weigh a selection at inspection. A drop in weight can mean a thinner casting or fewer stones, which is a quiet way of cutting cost.
What this means for a buyer
Choose the weight for your market, write it down and check it. Creston & Co works for buyers only, for a fixed fee agreed in writing: we weigh samples, record weights on the specification and check them again before shipment. Ask for a free sourcing review.