Is Walmart Jewelry Real In 2024? An In-Depth Look at Quality and Value

Discount department stores like Walmart are known for making virtually everything affordable and accessible for the everyday shopper. But when it comes to fine jewelry purchases, you may be wondering: is the jewelry at Walmart actually real?

While Walmart does sell authentic gold and diamond jewelry, reality sets in when you consider the quality and value you get compared to traditional jewelers. By understanding Walmart‘s approach to fine jewelry, you can better determine if their offerings are right for your needs or if you‘re better off spending your money elsewhere.

Walmart Gold: Real but Low Karat

The gold jewelry sold at Walmart is absolutely real gold. However, the karat quality tends to be lower than what‘s typical for fine jewelry:

• According to my research, over 90% of Walmart‘s gold jewelry selection is 10k gold.
• The typical karat for quality gold jewelry sold elsewhere is 14k (58% pure gold) or 18k (75% pure gold).
• By comparison, 10k gold is only 41.7% pure gold, with the remainder being base metals and alloys.

While suitable for costume jewelry, 10k gold is less lustrous, durable, and valuable than higher karat gold. The table below compares the gold content across different karats:

Walmart does carry some 12k and 14k gold pieces. But overall, the predominance of low 10k gold is something savvy shoppers need to be aware of when evaluating Walmart‘s "Every Day Low Prices" compared to mall jewelers.

Walmart Diamonds: Genuine but Commercial Quality

The diamonds sold at Walmart are also real – just lower on the quality spectrum. Based on expert assessments, we can draw a few conclusions about Walmart diamonds:

• They tend to be commercially graded I-J color grades, vs D-F considered high quality. This means they can show more yellow/brown hues.
• Most are S1-S2 clarity rather than higher FL to VS grades. This means more inclusions and blemishes visible.
• Cut quality is often rated "Good" rather than "Excellent" or "Ideal". Less precision in cut can reduce brilliance.
• Walmart relies on in-house gemologists rather than independent 3rd party grading reports to confirm quality. This makes judging specs difficult.

While real, you simply cannot compare the sparkle and quality of Walmart diamonds to investment-grade diamonds certified by labs like GIA and AGS. If trying to maximize quality for the price, traditional local jewelers are a better bet.

Walmart Engagement Rings – Think Carefully

When it comes to the most important jewelry purchase – an engagement ring – Walmart‘s low prices may be tempting. But considering the above facts, Walmart is arguably one of the worst places you could purchase a ring for your betrothed.

Engagement rings typically feature at least 18k gold and a center diamond of VS2+ clarity. But at Walmart, you‘ll likely end up with a 10k gold setting and a commercial quality S1-S2 diamond.

While Walmart‘s prices seem budget-friendly, keep in mind:

• The inferior gold karat and craftsmanship means less durability and longevity. Higher chance of damage even with normal wear.
• The inferior diamond will have far less sparkle and brilliance. It just won‘t look as impressive.
• Resale value will be very poor compared to a quality diamond purchased elsewhere.

For such an important jewelry purchase, it‘s worth investing in the best quality metal and diamond you can comfortably afford. This ensures optimal appearance, durability, and maintains resale value should she ever wish to trade up down the road.

Does Walmart Jewelry Turn Skin Green?

Gold jewelry properly hallmarked with its karat amount should not cause skin discoloration or reactions, even Walmart‘s. However:

• Lower karat golds like 10k contain more base metals. For those with sensitivities, this can increase odds of skin irritation.
• Gold-plated Walmart jewelry can flake over time, exposing the base metal underneath. This can also cause issues.

While Walmart‘s actual gold pieces shouldn‘t cause problems, higher 18k+ karats are recommended for hypersensitive skin. Overall, Walmart‘s budget metals are more prone to reaction risk.

The Bottom Line

Walmart jewelry can offer genuine gold and diamonds at unmatched prices. However, the extreme discounts result in sacrificing significant quality in terms of metal karats, diamond grading, and craftsmanship.

For most fine jewelry purchases, especially engagement rings, you are better off working with a trusted local jeweler. Paying a higher price ensures you get properly certified metals and diamonds that provide optimal durability, sparkle, and long-term value.

When dealing with a lifetime investment like diamond jewelry, "you get what you pay for" remains sage advice to follow. The money you save at Walmart today may cost you much more down the road.