I used to fall for these myths myself. I purchased inexpensive chains that lost their luster within weeks. I threw away good money trying to upgrade my style, only to discover the pieces were poorly made. Here’s the real story behind buying men’s jewelry, especially layered compass necklaces and chains.
I’ve learned my lesson the hard way. Just as you need reliable gear—be it a sturdy watch or a cozy ski beanie—you also need jewelry made from quality materials. This is what I wish someone had told me before I spent hundreds on subpar necklaces.
The Lie: If an ad says “Stainless Steel,” you can trust it’s safe to wear and built to last.
The Truth: Stainless steel comes in different grades. When you see a chain priced at just $15, it’s likely made from low-grade metal. This type of steel can still discolor your skin or rust easily. Poor-quality steel might even snap during physical activity, like when you’re hitting the slopes in your ski beanie and wearing a necklace.
What They Don't Tell You: You should specifically look for 316L Surgical Grade Stainless Steel. This grade is more durable, resists tarnishing better, and is much safer for those with sensitive skin. If the seller doesn’t mention “316L,” assume you’re looking at cheaply made jewelry.
The Lie: If it has a gold appearance, the plating is solid and will remain that way.
The Truth: Plating is merely a thin layer of gold over a base metal. Its longevity depends entirely on how thick that layer is. Extremely cheap necklaces use plating so thin it’s barely there, causing it to fade quickly—especially if you sweat or shower while wearing it.
Thin plating (around 0.5 microns) can wear off in just a week or two. That beautiful gold Cuban chain you bought can turn silver and patchy before the month ends. This is a common trick to sell low-cost items. A cheap price usually means thin plating, and thin plating leads to disappointment.
The Lie: As long as the product arrives, you don’t need any assistance. Just click “buy” and you’re done.
The Truth: Purchasing specialty items like layered chains or compass pendants often requires guidance. You might need advice on which chain styles (like Figaro versus Wheat) complement each other, or what length works best for your build.
Sometimes, even if the jewelry is decent, the seller’s service is lacking. One buyer shared this experience:
High-quality jewelry should come with high-quality service, whether you’re shopping online or in person. You want a seller who understands their products and is eager to help, not ignore you.