A step-by-step guide to sourcing, compliance, shipping, and branding.
1. Understand Jewelry Categories
Jewelry falls into different categories and import requirements vary:
- Fashion jewelry — low-cost costume pieces, plated, resin, acrylic, etc.
- Fine jewelry — gold, silver, diamonds, and other precious stones.
- Semi-precious jewelry — lower regulation than fine jewelry but may require documents.
- Handmade / ethnic jewelry — artisan items, rules depend on material.
Fine jewelry has stricter rules and higher duties compared to fashion jewelry.
2. Research Import Regulations
- Customs duties & HS codes — duty rates differ depending on jewelry classification.
- Hallmarking / purity certification — required in many countries for gold & silver.
- Restricted substances — nickel, cadmium, and lead are limited (EU REACH, US CPSIA).
- IP protection — avoid counterfeits and branded jewelry.
3. Find Reliable Suppliers
- Online platforms: Alibaba, 1688.com, Made-in-China, DHgate.
- Wholesale markets: Yiwu (fashion jewelry), Guangzhou, Shenzhen (fine jewelry).
- Trade shows: Hong Kong Jewellery Show, Canton Fair.
For beginners, fashion jewelry is simpler and safer to start with.
4. Verify Supplier Credentials
- Request business license & certifications.
- Check export experience to your country.
- Order samples to evaluate quality.
- Consider using a sourcing agent or third-party inspection.
5. Negotiate MOQ & Pricing
- Fashion jewelry: typically 50–200 pcs/design.
- Fine jewelry: higher MOQs, often customized.
- Handmade jewelry: flexible, depends on artisans.
Suppliers may offer custom branding, engraving, or packaging at low extra cost.
6. Arrange Quality Inspection
- Check plating thickness & durability.
- Inspect stone settings for security.
- Verify metal purity & hallmarks.
- Perform random checks across batches.
- Ensure packaging prevents tarnish & scratches.
7. Shipping Options
- Express (DHL, FedEx, UPS): fastest (3–10 days), best for small, valuable orders.
- Air freight: economical for medium shipments, delivery in about a week.
- Sea freight: lowest cost for bulk, but slow (30–40 days).
Jewelry shipments are high-value and often inspected — always provide clear invoices.
8. Customs Clearance
- Commercial Invoice
- Packing List
- Bill of Lading or Airway Bill
- Certificates for precious metals/gems (if needed)
- Compliance certificates (safety, metal content)
Using a customs broker or freight forwarder with jewelry experience is highly recommended.
9. Insurance & Risk Management
- Insure shipments against theft, loss, or damage.
- Consider inland insurance after arrival.
- Use tracked, signed courier services for small parcels.
10. Branding & Marketing
- Invest in premium packaging and unboxing experience.
- Use private labels for brand identity.
- Leverage Instagram, TikTok, Pinterest for visual promotion.
- Target niches: minimalist, bridal, boho, or sustainable jewelry.
Quick Checklist
- Choose jewelry category.
- Check HS codes & duties.
- Find and verify suppliers.
- Negotiate MOQ & pricing.
- Arrange inspection & secure packaging.
- Plan insured shipping.
- Prepare customs paperwork.
- Focus on branding & marketing.