Tools of the Trade: Jewelry Essentials for Resellers

Whether you're a jewelry reseller, collector, or just getting started in the world of vintage and handmade jewelry, having the right tools can make a massive difference. Over the years, I’ve tested tons of products—some were total flops, but others became my go-to staples that I use almost every single day.

In this post, I’m sharing the exact tools and supplies I use to clean, test, store, and ship jewelry. These are all linked below, and yes, some are affiliate links, but I only recommend what I personally use and trust.

💎 Jewelry Cleaning & Polishing Essentials

• Simichrome Polish – If you work with vintage costume jewelry or metal pieces, this polish is pure gold. It cleans tarnish off in seconds and brings back that brilliant shine without damaging the finish.

• E6000 Glue – The only adhesive I trust for jewelry repairs. Whether you’re reattaching a stone or fixing a broken brooch clasp, E6000 is industrial-strength and dries clear.

• Jewelry Polishing Cloth – Quick touch-ups? This polishing cloth is a lifesaver. I keep one in my work area and one in my purse for on-the-go fixes.

🔍 Testing & Identification Tools

• Jewelry Tester Kit – A must for identifying gold, silver, and platinum. This kit helps you avoid buying fake pieces and builds trust with your customers.

• Gem Tester Pen – Not all that sparkles is a diamond! This pen helps you instantly identify real vs. faux stones. Worth every penny.

• Jewelry Loupe Magnifier – I use this daily to inspect hallmarks, maker’s marks, and fine details. If you're buying bulk lots or thrift finds, a loupe is non-negotiable.

• Jewelry Tester Magnet – A simple but powerful tool. Non-precious metals are usually magnetic—this helps you quickly narrow things down.

• Ring Sizer – I sell a lot of rings, and this handy tool helps me give accurate sizing to buyers (and avoid returns).

📦 Shipping & Display Gear

• Jewelry Displays – Presentation matters, especially for live shows and product photos. These displays are budget-friendly and look pro.

• Travel Jewelry Organizer – I use this when sourcing or doing pop-ups. It keeps everything secure and prevents tangling or damage.

• Bubble Mailers – I ship daily, and these mailers are the perfect size for most jewelry orders. Lightweight and protective.

• Postal Scale – Accurate shipping saves money. If you're guessing weights, you're probably overpaying. This scale has saved me so much.

• Shipping Boxes – For larger or high-end orders, these sturdy boxes give a more premium feel and extra protection.

• Cheap Shipping Supplies & More – Temu has affordable packaging, tape, thank-you cards, and more. Great for bulk buying on a budget.

Final Thoughts

These tools aren’t just “nice to have”—they’ve helped me streamline my reselling business, reduce mistakes, and present my jewelry in the best possible light. If you’re serious about flipping jewelry for profit or simply want to protect and care for your collection, these are solid investments that pay for themselves.

Let me know if you try any of these or if you have a favorite tool I should check out!

P.S. This post contains affiliate links, which means I may earn a small commission if you choose to make a purchase—at no extra cost to you. Thank you for supporting my work and helping me keep this blog and podcast going! 💛