Fine jewelry and watch wholesaler for independent jewelers

Independent jewelry stores, small chains and boutiques that buy finished pieces to resell.

You earn a margin between your cost and your wholesale price. Larger orders and repeat store accounts drive revenue, and gross sales are higher than your profit.

• Knowledge of metals, stones and watches
• Relationship selling
• Negotiating terms and prices
• Careful inventory tracking

• Stock is expensive and can be stolen, so check jewelers block or inventory insurance and secure storage
• A credible sample line of fine jewelry or watches takes significant inventory capital, so ask suppliers whether they offer memo or consignment samples to reduce what you must buy upfront
• Check federal and state rules on metal purity marking and stamping, and FTC jewelry guidelines
• Dealers in precious metals and stones may have anti-money-laundering obligations, so check with the IRS or a lawyer
• Check that diamonds and stones come from legitimate, documented sources
• Check your state and city rules for a seller's permit and resale certificates
• Carrying valuable samples on the road adds security and vehicle insurance risks
• Memo terms and late payments can strain cash flow

Startup costs are typically around $40,000 to $150,000, depending on the size of your sample line, insurance and trade show costs. These are estimates, and asking suppliers about memo or consignment samples may reduce what you buy upfront.

Monthly revenue is typically around $4,000 to $20,000, depending on your line, how many jewelers you sell to and the terms you offer. This is an estimate, and memo terms and late payments can strain cash flow.

Check federal and state rules on metal purity marking and FTC jewelry guidelines. Dealers in precious metals and stones may have anti-money-laundering obligations, so check with the IRS or a lawyer, and check your seller's permit and insurance needs.