Gold has long been treasured for its beauty and prestige. But with prices soaring, jewellery brands, investors, and consumers alike have been forced to reevaluate priorities.
Why are Gold Rates Increasing?
To be clear, this is not the first time we’ve seen a surge in gold prices. During the pandemic, for instance, gold surged to over US$2,000 per ounce as investors turned to the commodity as a safe and reliable investment amid economic uncertainty.
Fast forward to 2025, and a mix of inflation, geopolitical tensions, trade issues, and increased demand has sent gold soaring once again, this time, crossing the US$3,000 per ounce mark for the first time in history.
Needless to say, this has put immense pressure on the jewellery industry as a whole. Yet, while a number of suppliers and jewellery brands have sought ways to reduce purity levels of their offerings or sacrifice craftsmanship in attempts to bring costs down and increase profit margins, some, like Bernhard H. Mayer from QNET, have chosen not to cut corners.
Bernhard H. Mayer’s Promise
Uncompromising Craftsmanship
Founded in 1871 in the German jewellery and watchmaking town of Pforzheim, Bernhard H. Mayer has always stood for dedication and impeccable craftsmanship. This explains why the brand has remained steadfast through the many challenges in its history and why, even in current market conditions, it has refused to compromise on quality.
Gold purity is typically measured in karats (up to 24K) or millesimal fineness (measured in parts per thousand, up to 999).
Simply put, karats (or carats) estimate the amount of alloy metals mixed with gold in an item, with 24K equating to pure gold, i.e., no other metals added. On the millesimal fineness scale, this would amount to a grade of 999.
Pure gold is soft and malleable. It’s also more easily scratched, dented, and unsuitable for intricate designs and detailing, settings with gemstones and everyday jewellery. This is why jewellery brands commonly use alloyed gold or gold mixed with other metals.
In Bernhard H. Mayer’s case, the heritage brand mainly uses solid 18K gold, i.e., 75% pure gold alloyed with metals. This strikes the perfect balance between purity and strength and also translates to offerings that are rich in colour and stunning in appearance.
But perhaps more important is the fact that while common responses by jewellery brands to the current price situation have included lowering gold purity levels of items to 10K (the lowest legal and commercially acceptable standard for “real gold” jewellery) and using gold plating, Bernhard H. Mayer has been unwavering.
Yes, lower-karat, hollow and plated offerings may be cheaper for consumers. They might also help brands and suppliers maintain profit margins. Yet, what’s also true is that these items are paler in colour, less durable, and prone to losing their shine. Hence, consumers ultimately lose out.
Designed to Endure
All this means is that if one is looking to acquire fine gold jewellery in the current economic climate, it’s advisable to prioritise quality and superior craftsmanship, even if that might translate to slightly higher purchase prices.
At Bernhard H. Mayer, every pendant, earring, bangle, and bracelet — whether it’s
The Classics, Elemental, Insignia, Serendipity, Embracelets, Pearl Icons, or Timeless Tanzanite — is crafted for versatility, elegance, and timelessness. The pieces also display warmth and unparalleled shine. Best of all, they stay true to the brand’s commitment to sustainability.
It’s no secret that the mining, refining and transporting of gold puts a lot of stress on the environment. Hence, Bernhard H. Mayer mainly uses recycled gold, i.e., gold that has been reclaimed from previously used products.
Granted, the term “recycled gold” might imply a compromise on quality. But that’s not the case at all, as recycled gold is identical to freshly mined gold with just one exception — when consumers purchase a Serendipity Fortune Pendant, a pair of Insignia Soul Earrings with stunning full-cut diamonds or any other Bernhard H. Mayer item, they enjoy the benefit of knowing that their favourite pieces have been designed with gold that isn’t endangering the planet.
A Legacy of Quality and Excellence
Yes, gold prices are continuing to surge, inching towards the US$4,000 an ounce mark, and this fact is impacting everyone.
Nevertheless, in a market where many players are looking to make gains and concessions, Bernhard H. Mayer from QNET stands as proof that it’s possible to offer premium pieces that don’t compromise on values.
For consumers, this means that when one purchases Bernhard H. Mayer jewellery, you aren’t just assured of high-quality gold accessories, but also of elegant pieces that endure and stay true to a heritage of excellence.
