In most cases you pay for jewellery samples and for the courier to send them. Many Rajkot makers will credit the sample cost against your first order once it reaches an agreed value, but courier charges and tooling for new designs are often not refunded.
Paying for samples is normal and is a sign of a serious buyer. Free samples are common only for low-value stock pieces or for buyers a maker already knows.
What you normally pay for
- The sample pieces themselves, often at or above the bulk price per piece.
- International courier, which can cost more than the pieces for a small parcel.
- Tooling for new designs: the die, rubber mould or master model. This is a one-off cost.
- Any extra pieces you order for lab testing.
When the cost is credited back
A common arrangement is that the sample cost is deducted from the first bulk order if that order reaches a minimum value or quantity. Tooling is sometimes refunded or spread over the first order too, especially when the maker expects repeat business.
These terms vary by workshop, and nothing is automatic. If the credit is not written into the quotation or proforma invoice, assume it does not apply.
Who owns the tooling
If you pay for a die or mould, ask in writing who owns it, whether the maker may use it for other customers, and whether it will be kept for your repeat orders. This matters most for your own designs.
What this means for a buyer
Budget for samples and courier as a cost of sourcing, and ask every maker the same three questions: sample price, courier cost and credit terms. That makes quotes easier to compare.
Creston & Co works for buyers only, for a fixed fee agreed in writing. We agree sample and tooling terms with workshops on your behalf and combine samples from several makers into one parcel. Ask for a free sourcing review.