A jewellery manufacturer owns the moulds or dies, runs casting, polishing and usually plating, and can change a design for you. A wholesaler buys finished stock from many workshops and resells it, so it offers wide choice but little control over how pieces are made.
Neither is wrong. The problem starts when a wholesaler presents itself as a factory and you pay for control you are not getting.
Questions that separate them
- Can you show me the mould or die for this design? A manufacturer can.
- Who does your plating, and what thickness do you use? A manufacturer answers directly.
- Can you change the stone colour, size or finish on this piece? A manufacturer gives a new sample time and MOQ.
- How many designs do you carry? Hundreds of unrelated styles from every category usually points to a wholesaler.
- Can I visit during production? A wholesaler will usually offer a showroom instead.
Signs in the price and catalogue
Wholesalers often show very large catalogues across many styles, quote low MOQs on ready stock, and give one price whatever the plating. Manufacturers usually specialise in a few product types or styles, quote higher MOQs for new production, and price by weight, plating and stone work.
Ask for the same piece in two plating thicknesses. A maker who controls plating will quote two prices and explain the difference.
When a wholesaler makes sense
For a first small order, a test of many styles, or a fast restock of ready designs, a good wholesaler can be the right choice. For private label, your own designs, compliance testing or repeat orders that must match, work with the manufacturer directly so you know who is responsible.
What this means for a buyer
Decide what you need from the supplier first, then check that the business can actually provide it.
Creston & Co works for buyers only, for a fixed fee agreed in writing. We visit Rajkot workshops to confirm who makes and plates your pieces, and supervise packing before shipment. Start with a free sourcing review.