When launching a new jewelry collection, the sample approval stage is the most crucial step in the entire development process. A single overlooked flaw can lead to:
- Mass production defects
- Customer complaints
- Returns/refunds
- Negative reviews
- Increased production cost
- Damaged brand reputation
- This is why brands and manufacturers including Yunova Lifestyle follow a rigorous quality inspection checklist before giving the final green signal for bulk production.
Whether you are a jewelry brand, a designer, or a sourcing manager, this guide details every must-check element before approving jewelry samples for production.
1. Visual Inspection: First Impressions Matter
Before touching calipers or gauges, the first step is a clean visual inspection under proper light.
Check for:
- Surface scratches
- Dull patches
- Plating inconsistencies
- Sharp edges
- Dents or casting bubbles
- Uneven polishing
- Wrong proportions
- A sample should look commercially ready, not “almost ready.”
2. Weight & Thickness Accuracy
Brands often specify weight brackets for rings, earrings, chains or charms.
Verify:
- Actual weight vs expected weight
- Metal thickness at weak points
- Prong strength (for stones)
- Hollow vs solid parts
Why it matters:
A piece that is too heavy feels uncomfortable, while a piece that’s too light may bend or break.
3. Size, Fit & Comfort Testing
Every jewelry piece must be comfortable for daily wear.
Check:
- Correct ring size (US, HK, India)
- Bracelet/chain lengths
- Clasp size & ease of use
- Earring post thickness (most common complaint area)
- Pendant bail internal size for chains
- Edges touching skin, should NOT poke
Comfort is a non-negotiable quality parameter.
4. Casting Quality Check
Casting issues become 10× worse in bulk.
So the sample must be perfect.
Look for:
- Porosity holes
- Parting line marks
- Unfinished corners
- Incomplete filling
- Resin or wax residue
High-quality casting results in long-lasting jewelry.
5. Plating Quality Check
One of the most important areas of QC.
Inspect:
- Color tone (gold, rose, silver, gunmetal)
- Uniformity of plating
- No burnt spots
- No shadows
- No peeling at edges
- No early discoloration
Perform:
- Sweat test (4–6 hours)
- Scratch test (light rub)
- Adhesion test (tape pull test)
If plating fails at sample stage → never approve it.
6. Mechanism & Functionality Test
For modular jewelry, this is CRITICAL.
Check:
- Lobster locks
- Magnetic clasps
- Clip-locks
- Hinges
- Chain joineries
- Screw systems
- Detachable components
Every mechanism should click, snap, rotate, or hold effortlessly.
7. Stone Setting & Embellishment Check
One loose stone in sample = 1000 loose stones in production.
Verify:
- Stone tightness
- Prong symmetry
- No glue visibility
- Even height
- Color matching
- Micro pave alignment
Do a gentle tap test and tweezer test to ensure no movement.
8. Color Matching Across the Collection
If your sample belongs to a set/collection:
Check for:
- Same plating color
- Same polish level
- Matching texture
- Same shade for enamel/resin
- Uniform pearl/stone color
Brand consistency increases perceived value.
9. Structural Strength & Durability
Your sample must survive daily wear.
Perform:
- Bend test (light pressure)
- Chain pull test
- Hook strength test
- Hinge tension check
- Charm drop test
If it breaks in your hand → it will break faster with customers.
10. Packaging Feasibility Check
Your sample must fit the packaging you plan to use.
- Check:
- Blister fit
- Box height
- Pendant card alignment
- Tangle prevention for chains
- Branding visibility
A beautiful piece deserves proper presentation.
11. Price Feasibility vs Quality
Even if the sample looks beautiful — is it practical?
Check:
- Weight vs costing target
- •lating thickness vs budget
- Number of parts vs labor time
- Stones and embellishments vs margin
The final design must be cost-effective and premium.
12. Final Approval Checklist (Use Before Bulk Order)
Approve sample ONLY if:
✔ Weight is accurate
✔ Plating passes tests
✔ No sharp edges
✔ Mechanisms work flawlessly
✔ No casting defects
✔ Stone settings are perfect
✔ Color is consistent
✔ Comfort is excellent
✔ Packaging fits
✔ Cost is approved
If even one fails → revise the sample.
Why This Checklist Matters
At Yunova Lifestyle, sample approval is not a formality, it’s the foundation of the full order.
By following these checks, brands can:
- Reduce returns
- Improve customer satisfaction
- Ensure consistent bulk production
- Maintain brand trust
- Avoid material wastage
- Get better margins
