It can be a tough market for a jewellery seller at the moment, it is claimed.

People who purchase jewellery with the aid of a parcel delivery from eBay may be more cautious at the moment.

According to Ruth Donaldson, UK manager for Platinum Guild International, now is not an easy time for jewellers.

This is down to shoppers being more cautious because of the economic uncertainty, which in turn makes people "more discerning" in their buying habits.

"There is a much bigger focus on value out there," she explained.

"Being in a recession does not mean a consumer will necessarily spend less but in their purchasing priorities they want to know what they're getting back for their investment; they want better quality."

Ms Donaldson also suggested that while platinum is very expensive, retailers would benefit from consumers knowing more about why this is so.

Platinum Guild International is a non-profit organisation funded by South African producers and refiners that offers support to the jewellery trade.

Posted by Mark Moore

Article Added: 09/09/2010 09:18:23