Why I Stopped Buying Designer Jewellery

Browse and shop gold & diamond ear piercings from IDYL here:
bit.ly/idylsophieshohet (not affiliate paying)
//IDYL piercings I'm wearing:
Lucia: bit.ly/idylsophielucia
Jade: bit.ly/idylsophiejade
Spark Cuff: bit.ly/idylsophiespark
Studs: bit.ly/idylsophiestud
* I do NOT earn commission from you clicking or buying.
*********************************************************************
//DISCLAIMER:
This video is in proud collaboration with Idyl, makers of gold and diamond jewellery. No affiliate links in use (I don't earn commission from you clicking on links or shopping)

[@glockenrein]

My parents are jewellers and nothing makes them more nervous than seeing me wear custom jewellery. 😂 I really do love diamonds though and if I had to recommend something for a first time buyer: save up for a bigger one instead of several smaller ones and get either a ring or a bracelet. This way you get the full effect of the way it reflects the light and it’ll be in pieces of jewellery that you yourself can see and enjoy while you’re wearing them - much harder with a necklace or earrings.

[@Gotchalaboom]

But they let you spend your money on it?

[@glockenrein]

@@Gotchalaboom of course, I was joking. 😄 It’s just fun sometimes and I don’t buy any expensive costume jewellery, more like things I can wear to the pool without worrying.

[@helenledwith-hales4459]

I can’t believe the prices they charge for brass jewellery 😮

[@indoora]

I love your honesty, you are one of the few on KZbin who has shown how the pieces have helped up over time.

[@sarahg6929]

I would be so interested to see more of what you've made, clothing or jewellery, or your jewellery making process!! You've made stunning pieces

[@marianapico8660]

Hi, Sophie! Could you show us your non-luxury handbag collection? I think that would be a great video.💕

[@paulinewhooten3832]

The jewelry you made is lovely. I especially love the necklace with the panther heads. ❤😊

[@tomaspolese]

As a gemologist from I.G.I I have to say that unfortunately no, lab grown diamonds are not a more eco friendly alternative than natural diamonds. Yes they are the same thing but to create them the labs require a massive amount of energy and resources. On top of that they are virtually worthless because it’s a non regulated market. It’s better in my opinion if you are concerned about the environment to get second hand jewelry pieces and refurbish them (so you are not contributing buying new things plus you are going to save tons of money) or get imitations.

[@magicalspacegiraffe]

The main issue with natural diamonds, for me, is the use of child labour. Yes, they take resources to produce, but at least I can be assured they don't use kids in labcoats to do the job. And the more antique a diamond, the more likely, I would like to believe, it had involved slave and child labour (my hope being things are getting better nowadays and therefore new diamonds are less likely to be covered in blood).

[@tomaspolese]

@@magicalspacegiraffe thankfully, if there is one thing that you can be assured about natural diamonds mining is that there’s no abuse of employees. The amount of skill required to do the job is extremely high and requires well trained professionals that are often time flew in by big corporations. Child labor is frequent in colored gemstones mining, but diamonds absolutely not.

[@tomaspolese]

@@magicalspacegiraffe I agree if we talk about antique diamonds it’s a completely different story. I am talking about modern mining.

[@ildiaxillen]

That is absolutely not true at all. Diamond mining is done by low paid workers and children. Even the Australian and Canadian mining companies treat their workers like garbage.

[@ildiaxillen]

As a gemologist? I highly doubt that. Just the fact that you call mined diamonds natural diamonds is laughable.

[@flohough1870]

I think this was my favorite video of yours so far. That Dior zodiac choker is gorgeous! But I loved seeing the pieces you made just as much, you have a fabulous eye for what works and they are so unique. Would love to see more of both your collection and the pieces you've made! (You should sell your jewelry, "Evil Eye Gems" would be a great name LOL.)

[@hanatan9639]

Hi Sophie. I’m a long time subscriber, but I think this is the first time I’m commenting. I love all your videos. You are the first ytuber I watched. As regards to Idyl, I feel everybody is showcasting their pieces, I’m not a fan at all. The real gem here is David finding the beautiful ruby pieces . Those are real class. More of those rare finds David.🎉😊

[@jacquelinevillarreal657]

LOVED you Cartier panthers creation…✨✨✨

[@susanbaker2796]

Hi Sophie, I just watched (from 5 years ago) your two videos about daily skin care routine and your daily makeup routine. Any chance for an updated video OR are they still basically the same. You really shine with those subjects. I learned a lot. Thanks!

[@sams3015]

I love how you can go back on her old videos and still find relevant videos. Her skincare videos are good though

[@susanbaker2796]

@Sam S Her advice on jobs and career, from years ago, are excellent as well. I really find them inspiring.

[@DenBank1]

You can make a "jewelry make-along" video just like in the sew-along sewing community. That would be unique and interesting. :)

[@shelleystevens3731]

Hi Sophie! I feel that jewelry pieces are unique adornments and as such should be personal to the wearer. There’s nothing interesting in wearing the very same jewelry pieces that everyone else is currently wearing or that instagram indicates is the latest and greatest. Your handmade jewelry pieces say something special about your individual tastes and that has true value! Did you receive my email about this topic a few weeks ago, specifically about the Greek designer brand Lagos? Have a lovely Sunday! 💕

[@Katt858]

I went onto the Chanel website to see how much a costume necklace is. 😮😮😮 I’m currently wearing a gorgeous platinum necklace with a small diamond solitaire on it from T&Co and it cost less than the majority of Chanel costume necklaces. That is NUTS!!! Costume jewellery never crosses my mind as some cheap metals either bring me out in a rash or makes my skin go a weird greeny colour!

[@giedrebey5444]

Dont exaggerate , Chanel metals never makes skin green. I wear chokers for years, although i did sold most of them, a few , very unique and rare ones, cant let it go. Real jewelry is nice, but it would cost a fortune, to create a size of some necklaces, more bigger, wider. Its statement pieces, like accessories .

[@Katt858]

@@giedrebey5444 I never said Chanel costume jewellery makes your skin green, I’ve never owned them. I just said I avoid costume as in my experience of having costume in general, at times, the cheap metal has made my skin green so I avoid costume at all costs. I rather layer non-costume jewellery. You can get good quality precious metals bigger jewellery at far less cost than Chanel, not just fine pieces.

[@katejohnson7393]

Wow Sophie. I love the videos you put out. I am new to looking at luxury bags and was beginning to feel naïve about wanting only one (a Chanel trendy or 19). But then I saw your video about only needing one bag! Yay! I love the idea of saving up for a long time (like about 3 years) and then finally being able to purchase it. I don’t want lots and lots of bags. I just want a beautiful one to enjoy. The same for a nice coat and things. I have also made lots of bead jewellery and I knit my own jumpers!! New subscriber!🥂

[@allystevens7036]

Loved links of London, got a blue and white diamond and silver circle bracelet in the sale from our local Fenwicks for my 60th birthday, so sad they no longer exist.

[@tonyabillings201]

My crystal chanel earrings have been repaired twice- the crystals keep falling out. I baby them but it doesn’t matter. Now they are just in a drawer looking a mess

[@sandrar6670]

Mine have been repaired several times.

[@tamaranovakovic5881]

Always like before I watch. Because we all know it's gonna be a good vid!! Love how honest you are Sophie! Keep going like this. Also I love this shirt on you. You look so stunning in it! Have a nice evening! And a good start into the new week! Lots of love from Austria! Xoxo 😘

[@SophieShohetOfficial]

Hello lovely Tamara! You’re so kind to me, thank you!🙏❤️😊 I really appreciate your love and support ❤️ Have a fantastic week ahead my friend!xx

[@srisubari9526]

Totally agree. Had my share with chanel earrings and it taught me (the hard way!) to purchase costume jewellery no more. Save & get the real ones, which will last for years:)

[@fashionablyfrancie5348]

Hello, my dear! I always enjoy all your videos! The pieces you made are lovely! The piece with panther charms is my favorite! I also love anything with astrology. I am Greek, so I have always liked having pieces with the evil eye. Have a lovely week!

[@LauraPosse]

Ahhh!!! The Chanel Pearl brooches at the start! I have the same exact one 😳. It’s my only piece of Chanel costume jewelry atm.

[@gillsargisson8863]

The jewellery you have made is gorgeous Sophie ❤. I have several pieces of Links of London jewellery and absolutely love them, so sad they went bust. Loved seeing some of your jewellery collection xx

[@princessdyn]

I love buying vintage jewelry on eBay. You can beat quality that last for centuries when pieces from today's "high end" brands break down fast.

[@everydayluxury]

Really enjoyed seeing the pieces you made yourself! That’s truly a way of self expression! ❤❤

[@drdornesowerby5863]

Hello Sophie, trust that you are well. A very interesting and informative video. A great place for antique jewellery is Portobello Road Market in Nottinghill and Gray's Antiques, just off Oxford Street, both in London.

[@adastra5214]

Love your care from buying from local small businesses, I do the same as well every time I can. I absolutely loved your self-made "Cartier" necklace,, It's so beautiful, I think Cartier will be upset they didn't come up with it themselves, It's really stunning.

[@eleonoramerini2840]

Hi Sophie! I love it so much to see your creativity. You inspire me to do more stuff with my hands. This year I got so exhausted that I stopped. Very interesting video.

[@SophieShohetOfficial]

Hello Eleonora! Ahh, I love making things 😊 it can make you feel so chill 😊😋😍 Hugs xx

[@BetterwithPhoebe]

I'm really happy that lab diamonds are growing in popularity. Less mining is better for the world. The only difference between lab and mined is how you feel about it. I feel better knowing that an ecosystem hasn't been destroyed for my ears to sparkle. That said, I've seen so many Idyl ads that I think I'd shop elsewhere to have a more unique look. I love Vrai. Their diamonds are grown with 100% renewable energy.

[@Sussi3107]

But i heard that resale value is Zero because they are not real diamonds

[@BetterwithPhoebe]

@@Sussi3107 the only fine jewelry that has good resale value is high jewelry ($100k+ per piece). Compare full pave Love bracelets new vs pre-loved. They lose 30-40% even in giftable condition. Lab diamonds are chemically identical to mined diamonds. They are REAL, but the mining industry wants you to think they're fake. The mining industry desperately wants people to keep believing that mined diamonds are worth paying 2x for. They aren't. Lab is chemically identical and you can get bigger, higher quality diamonds for much less. If it's important to you that they are mined, then buy mined. But know you're being manipulated by marketing.

[@apgx6032]

A really great watch, thank you. Lab grown diamonds are great fun but not an investment. Delighted to hear how you support small business.

[@kelsey7132]

This video came at the perfect time 😊 I was thinking about buying some jewellery to celebrate my 30th and will definitely go to a jewellers rather than getting costume designer jewellery. The comment section is also very helpful! x

[@Katt858]

For less than the price of a Chanel costume necklace, you can get a small diamond on a platinum chain in Tiffany’s! I just looked on Chanel site and I have a Tiffany diamond necklace. I’m a bit shocked!

[@alexsnezh]

Love the tips and tbe shirt, Sophie. It reminds me of Luna from Sailor Moon. The first pair of earrings, though, the pearl ones with brass stars are something else. That orange stain is tragic.

[@indoora]

I would love to see the jumpers you have made.

[@veronicavenditti3614]

Hi Sophie, how was your weekend? Thanks again for the previous video about your new Porsche... I appreciated it very much 😘

[@SophieShohetOfficial]

Hello lovely Veronica! The weekend has been great, thank you! I hope yours has too? We’re making pizzas and chilling in the kitchen this evening 😊🥰xx

[@SophieShohetOfficial]

P.s. thank you for watching the Porsche video!🙏❤️xx

[@veronicavenditti3614]

@@SophieShohetOfficial I really love that mirrored jewelry box that we can see at the beginning of the video!

[@KristinaSokic]

@@SophieShohetOfficial Dear Sophie, you are a true example of a KZbinr and a great role model for everyone! The kindness in responding to comments, the knowledge and experience that you selflessly share with us are truly commendable!

[@veronicavenditti3614]

@@KristinaSokic She's always really nice 😊

[@Febene]

Hi Sophie what do you think of the new Aspinal bags?

[@kath1626]

Thank you for your input there. I had just set my eyes on two Fendi rings and fitting earrings and I'll reconsider. It's fashion jewellery, afterall. 🥺

[@sandrar6670]

I’ve had two pair of Fendi earrings break. Luckily it was within the two year period and got store credit. I didn’t take a chance with their jewelry and bought a belt instead.

[@amarjot6]

Hi Sophie, which brand are those star shaped earrings on the top left with chanel ones?

[@staciarenee2982]

Hi Sophie! Could you please do an update on your Bvlgari serpenti bag and how it's holding up wear n tear wise???

[@danielintheantipodes6741]

I love the jewels you have made! You could earn a fortune selling these designs! They are stunning. Thank you for the video!

[@bridgettecummings6914]

I absolutely love the necklace you made with the panthers with green eyes. It screams Cartier!

[@i123456987654]

yeah, i'm never getting chanel earrings with pearls or anything that will fall off...so thanks for the advice

[@StyledByGwenny]

I love tge creativity of some costume jewellery, but if I'm laying down that kind of money I want to be confident in at least wearing it in the shower! Im really enjoying my Idyl earrings, so much fiun to mix & match. That panther head necklace you made, Sophie, WOW! Have a great week 💕 xx

[@marygrace100]

I don't have pierced ears so like my Dior costume brooch for sparkle where necklaces would get in the way or not show. And sometimes I just love the design

[@michaelaengels7825]

I like the pieces you made. Really beautiful and special.

[@mwedzi]

Oh gosh, you're a knitter too! That's really cool. I bet you have an eye/hand for all the lux yarns as well.

[@blacknoise]

Literally made the decision to get a Cartier ring instead of a Dior choker for this reason! (Also I really like Idyl. Great service, price point, and aesthetic!)

[@ZaraAllegra]

Only you, Sophie, could convince me to get extra ear piercings. :P I am seriously considering getting a few in the future months. Also, I never thought about buying pricey custom/costume jewelry because it doesn't makes sense when I could get real deals. I also stick to statement pieces because I'm a little careless - so earrings and bracelets mostly, and sometimes rings; very seldom for necklaces because I tend to break them. :(

[@idyljewelry]

We love seeing you sparkle in idyl❤

[@kelleyr8702]

Sophie, I agree with you if you mean buying NEW. But, I have bought many gorgeous pieces on the RealReal, luxury promise, and even eBay. I have literally not had a single piece that broke or tarnished. For me, paying full price for any costume jewelry doesn’t make sense, but don’t discount the benefit of Pre-loved. The last 10 years, I have definitely invested more in real jewelry, and I love it. Also, going pre-loved let’s you find some stunning and unique vintage pieces. So sorry for your tribal earrings- I love this style & have 3 pair that still look new. All purchased Pre loved- the last from the real real for under $200.

[@monimarz]

Fifth lux influencer selling this brand. I would never buy plastic/resin costume jewelry ever! I always keep this in the back of my mind, if there was a time in which trading was the only way to obtain anything, would it be worth something? Precious metals and stones remain valuable. These items you can sell or trade. Luxury brands are not worth anything beyond the name. Buy fine jewelry and avoid the hype. A diamond is a diamond is a diamond...value is base on cut, weight, and clarity. Avoid the trends and be smarter with your purchases.

[@islandgirl21131]

Love the vintage ruby and diamond earrings. I have some similar in heart shape. Also love green malachite. I agree that the luxury costume jewelry is inferior many times.

[@madzioch3]

Hello Sophie! Absolutely agree with You. Have a nice evening. Greetings from Poland. 😊😘

[@SophieShohetOfficial]

Have a lovely evening Magdalena! Hugs xx

[@archeewaters]

your creations are super pretty. wear them in good health!

[@ariadnaspacey1603]

Thank You! I enjoyed that!👍❤😇

[@crustyrash]

Oh I loved Links of London! The last time I was in London (2025 ish) I went there and find some great things. How sad they are gone.

[@wendycoles-littlepage1919]

I remember that Christmas vlog where you opened the Zodiac choker from David and your face just lit up! 💝

[@Sussi3107]

Sophia Can you please post the link for the Pearls for Chanel earrings?

[@SophieShohetOfficial]

Hello lovely Suzan! I bought them from a random seller in around 2015. I’m sorry I don’t have a link I can share with you 😣 I wish I could as I could do with buying more 😓 Hugs xx

[@mindymurata730]

Hello Sophie, Happy Sunday😊 from California!

[@SophieShohetOfficial]

Hello lovely Mindy! Hugs xx

[@ChowmutLe]

I have a cc earing with crystals in it, and those earrings have been repaired no less than 5x. Granted Chanel repairs for free, but it's still annoying, because it takes 3 months and they still fall out so easily.

[@jamiebishop1060]

Brilliant video, Sophie! Im also very much into the evil eye 🧿! Your handmade jewellery is stunning ❤

[@LTNZ1]

I always thought that designer jewelry is waste of money. As for me I get very much bored in general when it comes to jewelry. I stopped buying jewelry and its a kind of relief 🌸

[@alessiomanfrinato6786]

i saw people getting their dior bijouxs exchanged one they tarnished, you should go and ask!

[@krisgrandinetti5797]

Love jewelry videos!! 🥰💗

[@traceyreneerivera-fernande6876]

I saw some dupes on Amazon I might get just to test out..

[@surabhiagarwal5359]

Some these designer ones are available for quite cheap at vintage markets. The not so obvious logo ones. :) Somehow I can't buy costume jewellery

[@Sussi3107]

But i heard that resale value is Zero because they are not real diamonds

[@sandrar6670]

Does anyone know if Christian Dior will repair tribal earrings? I have a pair purchased in 2019 in Paris and some of the stones fell out.

[@SophieShohetOfficial]

I’d hope they would Sandra, I’m in the same predicament!xx

[@sandrar6670]

It’s on my errands to do list to see if they’ll repair. Chanel Selfridges refused to repair the CC rhinestones. Bond St Chanel repaired them for free in 2019. Such a shame the quality of costume designer is lacking for earrings that don’t get worn often.

[@marygrace100]

They will replace within 2 years but i don't think they will repair

[@sandrar6670]

@@marygrace100 Thanks for the info.

[@diamondtrinket]

Would be interested in your opinion on pre owned time pieces,.

[@Gotchalaboom]

Pre owned costume jewellery could be acdisaster

[@diamondtrinket]

I am referring to watches

[@thewanderlustexplorer]

very informative

[@lluvbagel9875]

Do you know this company called Paspaley Pearl? They're an Australian company. They produced cultured pearl.

[@lolipena8051]

I love these videos. They are the reason why I own none.

[@annabiggs2534]

Every influencer and his dog is flogging this brand at the mo.

[@rockandblues3635]

I only wear fine jewelry only, yes expensive but worth it

[@minniex622]

You look soo beautiful in Idyl earrings 💝💝💝😍

[@kaylheecarroll3186]

I've got a lab diamond 💎 and emerald wedding ring 💍

[@justjacqueline2004]

Lab grown diamonds should start at 10carats at least as they are so cheap! Or not?

[@tammymcleod9860]

Vintage is the best!!

[@Gotchalaboom]

It’s just a shame the costume jewelry is relatively affordable for people with smaller wallets and then they sell you crap, it’s like literally saying don’t come back!

[@coding7196]

I would love to get lab-grown precious stones; I am a fan of well-made fashion jewellery and I appreciate being warned about how terrible the Chanel fashion jewellery is. Finally, I am convinced that boutique Cartier; boutique Tiffany and boutique VC&A are all a waste of money and a total rip-off.

[@ms.coltoff-fraser-harrigan8328]

Hello from Long Island, New York!

[@SophieShohetOfficial]

Hello to you my friend!!xx

[@Fabiane.Costa.]

Hi, Sophie!

[@helloindulgence]

I have some Links of London pieces that I adore, it's too bad the business closed.

[@gen_o]

This should be titled “My favourites from my jewellery collection “. 😉

[@Handbagqueen23]

What cheap tat those Chanel pieces are and they cost such a lot.

[@jillmartin8255]

Hi Sophie, must be first ish!!!! Hugs xx

[@rebeccamullan922]

Ooooooo that was tight lol

[@SophieShohetOfficial]

Tbh you’ve both come in first on this occasion I think, less than seconds between you both!! I hope your weekends have been good? Hugs to you both!!xx

[@rebeccamullan922]

@@SophieShohetOfficial Relaxing sunday. Meeting mum for lunch tomorrow. Hope you had a nice weekend.

[@barbararios246]

I love Avon jewelry it lasts a lifetime

[@plavaovcica]

Why don’t you change your name to just Sophie Shohet withour this 3 word extension? it would look a lot neater in the subcriptions list…

[@evelinac2423]

:))))) cool video!

[@rebeccamullan922]

Hi Sophie

[@SophieShohetOfficial]

Hi Rebecca!!🥳🥳🥳

[@starkotik2346]

I am agreeing. Dior or Chanel bijou not really good quality. I will never buying again.

[@annwest3373]

Seems be vintage isn't in fashion

[@georgiaglekas5752]

🎂 Hello 🎈. I 🎂 think 🎈 your 🎂 birthday 🎈 is 🎂 coming 🎈 up 🎂 soon 🎈? Happy 🎂 birthday 🎂🎈

[@tina8796]

Most of it looks like something you'd get out of a gumball machine. Chanel's laughing all the way to bank. Charging $800 for something that should cost and looks like it's about worth $8. So, you know they're making a lot of money off that junk. It's sad so many people fall into their trap. Paying for the name only. No quality. Just dime store junk

[@citigirl]

Diamonds 💎 are a girls best friend

[@HH-xj8nh]

Hi, Sophie!

[@SophieShohetOfficial]

Hello lovely!!🥳🥳❤️😊