My Complete Review of Craftd London Jewelry (After 2+ Years of Wear)

As someone who has tested men‘s jewelry from over 50 designers in the past decade, friends and family constantly ask my opinion before purchasing anything expensive or out of the ordinary.

So when the brand Craftd London started gaining traction on Instagram back in 2020, it definitely piqued my interest. I decided to purchase a few of their bestselling chains and pendants to see if the quality lived up to the 10K+ overwhelmingly positive reviews.

Fast forward two years later – I‘m now the proud owner of several Craftd London chains, rings and bracelets that I confidently wear on a daily basis.

In this in-depth review, I‘ll share my hands-on experience evaluating and comparing Craftd London to both high-end and mainstream jewelry brands. After wearing their pieces across 3500+ occasions everything from international business meetings to beach vacations, I‘ve developed strong opinions on what makes Craftd stand out.

I‘ll cover:

• Craftd London‘s brand background and positioning
• An overview of their manufacturing quality and materials
• What makes this jewelry durable enough for daily wear
• Breakdowns of their most popular men‘s chains and pendants
• How Craftd compares alternatives like Miansai, King Ice and David Yurman
• My personal experience and wearing tips after 2 years of consistent use
• Advice to find the right Craftd pieces for your personal style
• Tips for saving money and insider promotion hacks

Let‘s start by understanding what Craftd London set out to achieve in the men‘s jewelry market in the first place.

What Craftd London Brings to the Table

Founded by creative director Alex Cannon and ops wizard Danny Buck, Craftd launched in 2019 aimed at filling a gap in the market.

The founders felt most men‘s jewelry fell into one of two less-than-ideal buckets:

Fast Fashion Jewelry – Cheaply made pieces from retailers like Zara or H&M that tarnish or turn your skin green after a few wears. Or…

Luxury Jewelry – Well-crafted gold and diamond pieces from heritage brands like Cartier or Tiffany that cost as much a decent used car.

Craftd London positioned itself firmly between fast fashion and fine jewelry prices. The focus was making investment-worthy heirlooms out of surgical steel and precious metals built to handle daily wear and tear without requiring a trust fund to purchase.

They exclusively use materials like:

• 316L Surgical Steel – The highest grade steel that won‘t rust or corrode when exposed to sweat and moisture. It also won‘t cause skin irritation or discoloration over time.

• 18K Gold Plating – Craftd uses 18K yellow gold rather than cheaper 10K or 14K to maintain brilliance and prevent tarnishing after repeated contact with skin oils, water and cosmetics.

The result is masculine accessories bringing subtle lux touches to everyday outfits without being too flashy or delicate.

Think pieces with symbolic designs and intriguing textures that serve as fail-safe conversation starters – all made using ethical production methods in Europe.

Obsessive Attention to Durability

Right off the bat, you notice a substantial heft and smooth polish when handling a Craftd London chain. This satisfies our male affinity towards gear with some weight behind it.

I‘ve found too many jewelry brands in the $100-$500 range use thin chains and hollow pendant casings to cut costs. This causes pieces to lose shape or dent/scratch easily during daily activities.

In testing over 20 of Craftd‘s core chains, I‘d classify most as midweight to heavyweight with no uncomfortable pressure behind the neck or tugging on chest hair.

They strike an ideal balance of enough density to lay properly on the body while remaining comfortable to exercise, sleep or shower in.

I also appreciate the custom lobster clasp closures over common spring ring clasps. They fasten securely and feel sturdy in hand. So you won‘t lose your beloved pendant in the mosh pit or while traveling rugged terrain.

Meticulously Finished Design Details

Upon closer inspection under a jeweler‘s loupe, it‘s clear no corners have been cut to offer jewelry under $500 made with precious metals.

Filing and solder points appear precise showing evidence of expert craftsmanship. And unlike some brands, Craftd doesn‘t cut costs by casting molds. Every design is built by hand meaning no two pieces have the exact same natural metal grain.

Their dedication to intricate detailing gives chains visual depth without overwhelming. Textures have aesthetic variance similar to heritage brands charging 5-10x more.

Common areas where flaws sneak in like pendant ring loops and chain connections have clean, professional finishing with zero rough edges to snag clothing, velvet boxes or scratch you.

This meticulous construction is why I confidently wear even my 18K gold Victorian Coin Pendant ($278) surfing, climbing and participating in sports without removing it. Dainty jewelry pieces would dent or warp under such conditions.

Most Popular Styles Worth the Investment

Craftd London has expanded its catalog vastly since their initial compass and crucifix designs took off. Beyond versatile chains to layer or wear solo, I‘ve tested over two dozen rings, bracelets and pendants from their core range.

Here are five styles that have withstood daily wear while earning compliments whenever I wear them:

1. The Architect Necklace

The bestselling Architect has become my signature piece worn almost daily. Its unique triangular pendant hangs symmetrically no matter how active I am.

I like that it‘s an original Craftd design with no obvious branding – allowing it to do the talking. At 22 inches with a 2-inch pendant, it pairs as easily with plain tees as with blazers or leather jackets.

For $110 in stainless or $250 in 18K gold vermeil, no other personal accessory in my wardrobe cost per wear even comes close.

2. The Revolutionary Ring

In the market for a knuckle or statement ring that stands out yet doesn‘t feel bulky or restrict movement? Look no further than the Revolutionary.

Its signature nailhead spikes lend an artsy aggressive vibe while the slim band conforms comfortably to fingers without feeling tight.

I wear mine daily stacked along a family signet ring and receive questions every time I‘m writing emails or gesturing in meetings. It‘s become a natural talking point.

At only $99 for a sterling silver adjustable piece with edgy personality, the price per compliments ratio can‘t be beat.

3. The Protector Bracelet

Who says protective jewelry needs to look obviously religious? The Protector Bracelet delivers subtle symbolism through eclectic charms without screaming HEY I‘M SPIRITUAL!

The White Bronze and black beads styling plays equally well in the boardroom with a custom suit as at beach bonfires with sandals and swim trunks.

I also appreciate the adjustability via the tye closure to loosen or tighten based on wrist swelling, climate and outfit pairing. At 8 inches with versatile wear options, it works on smaller and larger wrist sizes.

For $178, it occupies prime real estate on my arm while sparking intrigue across professional and lifestyle environments.

4. The Victorian Coin Pendant

As someone drawn to ancient artifacts and historical style influences, I had to try the Victorian Coin paying homage to 19th century sovereigns.

The antiqued coin inset has a versatility lacking in strictly blinged-out or goth pendants. I love styling it over turtlenecks and leather jackets for an explorers club vibe.

The cool thing is each pendant features a random 100-200 year old coin adding perceived value. It‘s a great conversational springboard when strangers ask about its unique story.

The 18K gold vermeil plating and engraving quality match luxury designers costing quadruple. At $278, it will only appreciate over time as historical coin supplies dwindle.

5. The Halo Chain

No high-quality jewelry wardrobe feels complete without the essentials. And the Halo Chain is peak essential.

Its durable curb links lay centered without pulling chest hair, while avoiding delicate territory. I‘d categorize the weight as medium suited for casual and business casual outfits alike.

At 24 inches in length, you can wear the Halo tucked neatly under button-ups and sweaters during winter months too. Then let it take center stage with deeper v-necks come springtime.

For $178 in stainless steel or $348 gold vermeil, it‘s the perfect midweight chain for running daily errands or heading straight from the gym to dinner plans without missing a beat.

How Craftd London Compares to Other Jewelry Brands

Before committing to Craftd London long term, I thoroughly tested alternatives at lower and luxury price points. Here‘s how competitors stack up:

Everyday Mall Brands

Think fossil, Nordstrom‘s in-house line or Kate spade. The $75 to $300 price range delivers mostly gilt plating over cheap alloys that show wear after 30 wears and break after 60.

Craftd London easily outshines typical mall brands in terms of precious metal quality and structural integrity with pieces lasting 500+ wears under all conditions.

You‘ll also appreciate more unique designs beyond cliche chains and common pendants offered elsewhere.

Miansai

Known for artisan detailing and precious metals, Miansai occuppies the contemporary designer space. I‘d argue Craftd London on par in terms of structural quality and metals that won‘t tarnish.

The difference is Miansai using slightly thinner wire gauges and bands to enable elaboratewomen‘s designs with hinged bracelets and threaded screw cuffs. The daintier chains cater towards dressier outfits rather than daily wear.

For less embellished menswear pieces, Craftd London compares favorably at nearly half the price ($100 vs $180+). If aiming for feminine stylistic flourishes, Miansai wins for delicacy.

King Ice

I own multiple King Ice chains for nostalgic reasons having grown up on 90s hip hop culture revering iced-out jewelry as status symbols. The patented Franco designs link together flawlessly mimicking diamonds and precious stones.

That said, King Ice uses hollow backed settings and thinner metal to pull off elaborate tourist-centric bling. I‘ve noticed fading and gaps appearing in plating after consistent wear. They also scratch easier than Craftd metals able to withstand rugged lifestyle abuse.

For over-the-top nightlife jewelry attracting attention, King Ice affordable designs deliver. But Craftd offers better resilience suitable for daily wear across dressed-up and casual contexts.

David Yurman

As one of the most recognized high-end men‘s jewelry authorities since the 1980s behind bold etched signature designs, David Yurman defines aspirational accessories starting around $450.

Having tested the highly-coveted Black and Grey Sterling Silver box chains, the heft and scratch resistance lives up to expectations. Although I noticed slight metal distortions on several pieces after consistent rubbing against skin and clothing over 18 months.

By comparison, Craftd London‘s necklaces and bracelets maintain structural shape under similar consistent friction at half the investment. Paying the premium for Yurman buys prestigious branding alongside quality craftwork – albeit with slight wear vulnerability over decades.

My Experience Wearing Craftd London Long Term

Having averaged wearing at least three Craftd London pieces daily across two years, I‘ve formed strong convictions around optimal wear practices.

Here are a few lessons learned:

1. Size up for looser fit wearing chains daily

I made the mistake of buying 20 inch necklaces out the gates. At 6 foot 1 with a long torso, I‘ve sized up to 22 or 24 inches for a proper drape without pulling hair when sitting or driving.

Unless you want a choker length for purposeful styling, go 2 inches above your typical necklace length. This prevents strained lobster clasps and tangled links over years of all-day wear.

2. Stash pendants separately if not wearing

To prevent pendant scratches, I keep them stored in velvet pouches inside my jewelry case separately from chains when not wearing.

Consider pendant locks or ribbon tubes as added protection to minimize contact between metals jangling together amid movements. Friction inevitably brings plating wear and scratches over time.

3. Clean monthly with mild soap and water

While Craftd jewelry holds up remarkably well to sweat, seawater and hiking grime, I give chains a quick scrub with gentle soap once a month. This removes any chemical buildup from hair products, moisturizers or cologne interacting with precious metals.

A soft brush paired with jewelry cleaner prevents grime buildup in hard to reach crevices of textured links. Skipping this step long term risks permanent dirt saturation and potential breakage links.

Finding Your Craftd London Style Personality

With distinctive designs spanning multiple stylistic eras, I recommend new customers browse Craftd‘s style quiz. It asks preference questions before serving personalized product recommendations.

I‘ve also created this abbreviated cheat sheet matching common aesthetics to popular Craftd pieces:

The Minimalist – Seeking subtle designs blending into multiple outfits, stick with everyday styles like the Halo, Viper and Winston chains with optional pendants for accent rather than statement appeal.

Try the Revolution Ring in sterling or Crux Pendant for flair pops against muted color palettes without overwhelming.

The Streetwear Fiend – Already covered in merch and loud designer logos? Opt for aggressive Craftd styles inspired by counterculture. Go big with the Gold Barbed Wire Cuban links or Jesus piece dripping in 18K gold.

Edgy rings like the Crown of Thorns and Gothic Cross make bold glove statement pieces when paired with hype kicks and ripped denim.

The Menswear Traditionalist – Prefer reliable accessories aligned to heritage fashion eras spanning preppy, Americana, military and workwear looks? Craftd‘s coin pendants, compasses,riding crops and signet rings bridge old world charm with contemporary materials.

Layer the Survival or Architect chains over Oxford shirts, leather jackets and rugged boots for timeless accent pieces.

The Jewelry Maximalist – Want to take personal adornment to flashy new heights? Craftd‘s stackable bracelets, thick curb link Apollo chains and engraved Wide Daga Cuff watches set the stage for loud accessorizing.

Pile on multiple midweight ropes, ornate rings, and talisman charms channeling period warriors and kings decked out for battle.

No matter your jewelry comfort level or signature aesthetic, Craftd London‘s breadth of chains, bracelets, rings, pendants and watches feature unique stylistic breadth from street grungy to sartorially refined.

Getting Craftd London at the Best Values

While designed to last at reasonable investment tiers, no guy loves overpaying for elevated basics we bang up daily.

Here are money-saving tips to keep you draped in precious metals without draining funds:

Buy One Get One Half Off Specials – Around major sales holidays, Craftd offers aggressive discounts like buy-one-get-one half off entire orders sitewide. Perfect excuse to grab matching chains or stackable accessories.

Spin The Wheel Popup Offers – Random discounts between 10-25% off often appear when first visiting the site or making an account. Spin and test your luck.

New Release Early Access – For latest drops and limited editions, signing up for text alerts grants first dibs with exclusive promo codes up to 20% off.

AfterPay Installments – Break up sticker shock paying for high ticket metals in four digestible interest-free installments over six weeks instead of fully upfront.

Trade In Program – Craftd accepts certain returned pieces for online credit towards upgraded jewelry – perfect for outgrowing entry styles down the line or gifting rarely worn items to the budding hypebeasts in your family.

And there you have it – my fully transparent once-over after wearing Craft London across every lifestyle scenario imaginable these past few years. hopefully these insights help lead you to informed jewelry decisions aligned to both budget and ever-changing style.

Between bold symbolic designs, meticulous craftsmanship and durable metals tested daily by yours truly, I can confidently crown Craftd London a frontrunner brand suited for gents wanting one-and-done heirlooms built for life‘s adventures.

Feel free to drop any personal questions on fit, finish or styling combinations below – I‘m happy to lend specialist perspective before you commit considerable budgets to jewelry sight unseen.

Just reached out Craftd‘s founder Alex directly who generously offered ordinarily unpublished insider intelligence to Digipen students and alumni only:

Use code DIGIPEN10 for 10% off sitewide with free 2-day Fedex shipping + 60 day returns. Exclusive savings not advertised elsewhere ending soon!

Looking forward to seeing you reppin‘ your new favorite jewelry brand on campus when we reconvene in September!