Buying Guide

Buy with confidence.

A practical guide to choosing jewelry, eyewear, watches, bags and apparel — understanding materials and quality, finding your size, and caring for your pieces so they last.

Last updated: October 2026

Understand the metals

Gold karats indicate the proportion of pure gold: 18K gold contains 18 parts gold out of 24, 14K contains 14 parts. Higher karat gold is more precious and softer; lower karat alloys are harder and more resistant to everyday wear.

Plated and gold-filled pieces have a layer of gold over a base metal. Gold plating is beautiful but finite — with daily wear, plating can gradually wear through. Where a product is plated or gold-filled, this is stated on the product page.

Sterling silver is 92.5% silver alloyed for strength; it may tarnish over time and can be cleaned gently. Always check the “Material” line on the product page for exact specifications.

Gemstones and treatments

Jewelry may feature natural stones, lab-grown stones or simulants. Where a stone has been treated or enhanced (for example, by heating), we aim to state this in the product description. If you are unsure, contact us before ordering — we are happy to clarify.

Read the product page

  • Material — metal type, karat, plating or base metal;
  • Stone — type, cut, carat weight or dimensions where applicable;
  • Dimensions — chain length, ring size, bangle inner diameter;
  • Clasp and finish — closure type and surface finish; and
  • Care — any care instructions specific to the piece.

Ring sizing

Measure at the end of the day when fingers are slightly larger, and measure the finger, not the ring. Use the ring size table in the Sizing & Care tab, and when in doubt choose a slightly larger size for comfort.

Earrings and hygiene

For hygiene reasons, sealed earrings and similar items that have been unsealed after delivery are generally non-returnable. Check the product page and our Refund and Return Policy before purchase.

Choose the frame shape

Frame shape is about balance: angular faces often suit rounder frames, softer features can carry bolder shapes, and oval faces suit most styles. Above all, choose a frame that feels comfortable and flatters your own face — these are general guidelines, not rules.

Frame materials

Metal frames are lightweight and adjustable; acetate frames offer richer color and texture and are durable. Check the product page for the frame material, bridge width and temple length so the frame fits your face width.

Lenses

Where a product specifies lens features, they are described on the product page. Do not assume protection that is not stated.

Fit

The frame should sit comfortably on the nose without slipping and the temples should not press behind the ears. If adjustment is needed, a local optician can make minor adjustments to metal frames.

Care

Clean lenses with a soft microfiber cloth and lens cleaner, avoid abrasive materials, store frames in their case, and keep them away from direct heat.

Movement types

  • Quartz — battery-powered, accurate and low-maintenance; battery replacement is needed periodically.
  • Automatic — self-winding through wrist movement; no battery, but benefits from regular wear or a winder.
  • Mechanical — manually wound; prized for craftsmanship, requires regular winding.

The movement type is stated on the product page. Consider your daily routine — an automatic watch that sits in a drawer for long periods may need winding before wear.

Case size and fit

Case diameter is measured in millimeters across the case, excluding the crown. Wrist size matters as much as case size: a large case can overpower a slim wrist, while a small case may feel lost on a broad one. Typical guidance: [36–40mm for women, 40–44mm for men, 34–38mm for unisex — adjust to your collection].

Water resistance

Water resistance is stated on the product page where applicable — never assume it. If a rating is given, do not exceed it: for example, a watch rated for light splashes should not be worn swimming. When in doubt, remove the watch before water contact.

Straps and bracelets

Leather straps should be kept dry; metal bracelets can be cleaned with a soft cloth. Strap width is usually listed on the product page so you can source a replacement later.

Warranty and servicing

Watches carry a movement warranty as stated in the warranty card. Mechanical and automatic movements benefit from periodic servicing by a qualified watchmaker. See our Terms and Conditions (Section 11) for warranty scope and exclusions.

Bag materials and structure

Check the product page for the outer material, lining and hardware. Leather develops character with age; coated or treated fabrics offer easy care; structured bags hold their shape better when stored with stuffing. Consider weight — a beautiful bag you will not carry is not a good buy.

Dimensions matter

Always compare the bag’s dimensions against what you normally carry (a laptop, a tablet, daily essentials). Pay attention to height and depth, not just length — and check strap drop if you plan to wear it over the shoulder.

Apparel sizing

Use the size chart on each product page and measure yourself against it — sizes vary between styles, fabrics and cuts. When between sizes, consider the fit you prefer: relaxed or tailored.

Fabrics and care labels

Follow the care label on every garment. Natural fibers (cotton, linen, wool, silk) and blends each have different washing, drying and ironing rules. When unsure, choose gentle care: cold wash or hand wash, and air dry.

Ring size conversion

Approximate equivalents for guidance only — sizes vary between manufacturers and measurement methods. We recommend professional sizing before ordering:

USEUUKInner diameter (mm)Inner circumference (mm)
549J½15.749.3
652M16.551.9
754O17.354.4
857Q18.156.9
959S18.959.4
1062T½19.761.9
1164V20.564.4

Approximate conversion based on inner circumference; EU size equals inner circumference in millimeters. Verify with a professional ring sizer.

Watch case diameter

Typical case sizes by intended wearer, as general guidance — see the product page for each watch’s actual diameter:

Intended wearerTypical case diameterNote
Women[36–40] mmSmaller wrists suit the lower end
Men[40–44] mmWrist width should exceed case width
Unisex[34–38] mmAdjust to your collection

Guidance only — final fit depends on wrist size and case proportions.

Apparel size conversion

Apparel sizing varies by style and fabric. Always use the size chart on the product page; where a conversion table is provided it is indicative only:

duphouse sizeUSUKEU
S[ ][ ][ ]
M[ ][ ][ ]
L[ ][ ][ ]
XL[ ][ ][ ]

To be completed per product line before publication.

Quick care rules

  • Keep jewelry dry and store pieces separately to avoid scratches;
  • Remove jewelry before swimming, bathing, sleeping or strenuous activity;
  • Clean lenses and metal with soft, non-abrasive cloths;
  • Follow care labels on apparel and keep leather goods away from prolonged moisture; and
  • Keep watches away from strong magnetic fields and sudden impacts.

Warranty and returns at a glance

Retail Products are warranted against defects in materials and workmanship as described in our Terms and Conditions (Section 11). EU/UK consumers may withdraw from a purchase within 14 days for standard items; custom and personalized pieces are not returnable. See our Refund and Return Policy.

Before you order. Check the size and measurements, review the material and care information on the product page, confirm delivery and customs expectations in our Shipping Policy, and keep your order confirmation for warranty purposes. Questions? Contact us at sales@duphouse.com.