Kids’ jewelry is a specialized segment within the broader jewelry market, designed specifically for children. These accessories are crafted to be safe, fun, and appealing to young tastes, often featuring vibrant colors, playful designs, and popular characters from children’s media. The types of jewelry available for kids include bracelets, necklaces, earrings, rings, and more. Each of these items is created with the child’s safety in mind, using materials that are non-toxic, hypoallergenic, and durable enough to withstand rough play. Unlike adult jewelry, which often emphasizes luxury and precious materials, kids’ jewelry focuses on affordability, safety, and the use of cheerful, whimsical designs.
Production of Kids’ Jewelry in China
China is the dominant force in the global production of kids’ jewelry, manufacturing approximately 70-80% of all such products worldwide. The concentration of production in China is due to the country’s well-established manufacturing infrastructure, access to a vast network of suppliers, and the availability of raw materials at competitive prices. The primary provinces involved in the production of kids’ jewelry are Guangdong, Zhejiang, and Jiangsu.
- Guangdong Province: This region is a key player in the jewelry manufacturing industry, with cities like Guangzhou and Shenzhen at the forefront. These cities are renowned for their extensive production capabilities, advanced manufacturing technologies, and proximity to major shipping ports, making them ideal locations for large-scale production and export.
- Zhejiang Province: Yiwu, located in Zhejiang, is one of the largest wholesale markets for small commodities, including kids’ jewelry. The province’s focus on manufacturing and trade has made it a central hub for the production and distribution of affordable jewelry items.
- Jiangsu Province: Another significant region in the production of kids’ jewelry, Jiangsu is known for its strong industrial base, skilled labor force, and innovative manufacturing techniques. The province contributes substantially to the overall output of the country’s jewelry sector.
10 Types of Kids’ Jewelry
1. Charm Bracelets
Overview
Charm bracelets are a timeless and popular type of kids’ jewelry, featuring a series of small trinkets or “charms” that can be added or removed from the bracelet. These charms often represent personal interests, hobbies, or milestones, making each bracelet unique to the wearer. The appeal of charm bracelets lies in their customizability, as children can collect and add new charms over time.
Target Audience
Charm bracelets are particularly popular among girls aged 6-12. These young fashion enthusiasts enjoy the idea of personalizing their accessories, often choosing charms that reflect their favorite animals, sports, or characters from beloved TV shows and movies. Charm bracelets are also popular as gifts, often given to commemorate special occasions such as birthdays or holidays.
Major Materials
Charm bracelets are typically made from a variety of materials, including stainless steel, silicone, plastic, and sometimes sterling silver for higher-end products. The charms themselves may be crafted from similar materials, with some incorporating enamel, rhinestones, or other decorative elements.
Retail Price Range
- Walmart: $5 – $20
- Carrefour: €4 – €18
- Amazon: $7 – $25
Wholesale Prices in China
Wholesale prices for charm bracelets in China generally range from $0.50 to $2.00 per bracelet, depending on the materials used and the complexity of the design.
MOQ
The Minimum Order Quantity (MOQ) for charm bracelets typically ranges from 500 to 1,000 pieces, depending on the manufacturer.
2. Beaded Necklaces
Overview
Beaded necklaces are a staple in the world of kids’ jewelry. These necklaces are often made from colorful beads strung together in various patterns, sometimes incorporating themed pendants or charms. Beaded necklaces are versatile and can be worn casually or as part of a dressier outfit.
Target Audience
Beaded necklaces are most popular among children aged 4-10. They are particularly favored by those who enjoy arts and crafts, as many beaded necklaces are available in DIY kits, allowing children to create their own jewelry. These necklaces also appeal to parents who appreciate their affordability and the opportunity for their children to express creativity.
Major Materials
Common materials used in beaded necklaces include plastic, wood, glass, and occasionally acrylic beads. The beads are often brightly colored or patterned, making the necklaces visually appealing to children.
Retail Price Range
- Walmart: $3 – $15
- Carrefour: €2.50 – €12
- Amazon: $5 – $18
Wholesale Prices in China
The wholesale prices for beaded necklaces in China range from $0.30 to $1.50 per necklace, depending on the materials and the complexity of the beadwork.
MOQ
The typical MOQ for beaded necklaces is around 1,000 pieces, making them accessible for both small and large retailers.
3. Friendship Bracelets
Overview
Friendship bracelets are woven or braided bands that children exchange as symbols of friendship. These bracelets often come in vibrant colors and can be customized with beads, charms, or embroidery. The practice of exchanging friendship bracelets is a cherished tradition among children, particularly in schools and summer camps.
Target Audience
Friendship bracelets are most popular among preteens, typically aged 8-14. They are often exchanged among friends as tokens of affection and are worn as a constant reminder of the bond between friends. This type of jewelry also appeals to children who enjoy crafting, as many friendship bracelets are handmade.
Major Materials
Friendship bracelets are usually made from cotton, nylon thread, and sometimes incorporate beads or other decorative elements. The materials are chosen for their durability and ability to hold vibrant colors.
Retail Price Range
- Walmart: $2 – $10
- Carrefour: €1.50 – €8
- Amazon: $3 – $12
Wholesale Prices in China
Wholesale prices for friendship bracelets in China generally range from $0.10 to $0.80 per bracelet, depending on the materials and design complexity.
MOQ
The typical MOQ for friendship bracelets is around 2,000 pieces, reflecting the low cost and high volume of these items.
4. Clip-On Earrings
Overview
Clip-on earrings are a popular choice for children who do not have pierced ears. These earrings attach to the earlobe using a clip mechanism, allowing children to wear earrings without the need for piercings. Clip-on earrings come in a variety of designs, from simple studs to elaborate dangling styles.
Target Audience
Clip-on earrings are suitable for children aged 5-12 who are interested in wearing earrings but are either too young for ear piercings or prefer a non-permanent option. They are particularly appealing to parents who want to allow their children to enjoy wearing earrings without committing to piercings.
Major Materials
These earrings are typically made from plastic, stainless steel, and hypoallergenic metals to ensure they are safe for children’s sensitive skin. The clips are designed to be comfortable yet secure, minimizing the risk of the earrings falling off during wear.
Retail Price Range
- Walmart: $3 – $15
- Carrefour: €2.50 – €12
- Amazon: $4 – $18
Wholesale Prices in China
The wholesale price for clip-on earrings in China ranges from $0.20 to $1.50 per pair, depending on the materials and design intricacy.
MOQ
The MOQ for clip-on earrings typically starts at around 1,000 pairs, making it feasible for retailers to stock a variety of designs.
5. Pendant Necklaces
Overview
Pendant necklaces feature a single charm or pendant that hangs from a chain. These necklaces are available in a wide range of designs, including hearts, animals, initials, and popular characters, making them a versatile option for kids’ jewelry.
Target Audience
Pendant necklaces are popular among girls aged 6-14. These necklaces are often worn as everyday accessories, and their designs can range from casual to more formal, depending on the occasion. Pendant necklaces are also a popular choice for gifts, especially when personalized with the child’s name or initials.
Major Materials
Common materials for pendant necklaces include stainless steel, plastic, glass, and sometimes silver-plated metal. The chains are usually adjustable to accommodate different neck sizes.
Retail Price Range
- Walmart: $5 – $20
- Carrefour: €4 – €18
- Amazon: $7 – $22
Wholesale Prices in China
Wholesale prices for pendant necklaces in China typically range from $0.50 to $2.00 per necklace, depending on the materials and the design of the pendant.
MOQ
The MOQ for pendant necklaces is usually between 500 and 1,000 pieces, allowing retailers to offer a variety of designs.
6. Character-Themed Rings
Overview
Character-themed rings are small, adjustable rings that feature popular children’s characters from movies, TV shows, or comics. These rings are often sold in sets and are designed to be fun and easy for children to wear.
Target Audience
Character-themed rings are particularly popular among children aged 4-10 who are fans of specific characters. These rings are often collected and traded among friends, making them a favorite among young fans of popular media.
Major Materials
These rings are typically made from plastic, silicone, and sometimes metal. The character designs are usually printed or molded onto the ring, making them vibrant and appealing to children.
Retail Price Range
- Walmart: $2 – $10
- Carrefour: €1.50 – €8
- Amazon: $3 – $12
Wholesale Prices in China
Wholesale prices for character-themed rings in China range from $0.15 to $1.00 per ring, depending on the complexity of the design and the materials used.
MOQ
The MOQ for character-themed rings is typically around 2,000 pieces, making them suitable for large retailers and party supply stores.
7. Anklets
Overview
Anklets are delicate chains or beaded strings worn around the ankle, often featuring small charms, bells, or other decorative elements. Anklets are particularly popular during the summer months and are often worn at the beach or with casual outfits.
Target Audience
Anklets are most popular among older children, typically aged 10-14. They are often seen as a more mature type of jewelry and are worn by children who are beginning to explore their personal style.
Major Materials
Anklets are commonly made from stainless steel, beads, and thread. The charms or decorations on the anklets may include shells, hearts, or other small pendants.
Retail Price Range
- Walmart: $4 – $15
- Carrefour: €3 – €12
- Amazon: $5 – $18
Wholesale Prices in China
Wholesale prices for anklets in China range from $0.30 to $1.50 per anklet, depending on the materials and design.
MOQ
The MOQ for anklets typically ranges from 1,000 to 2,000 pieces, depending on the complexity of the design.
8. Hair Accessories with Jewelry Elements
Overview
Hair accessories with jewelry elements include items such as hairbands, clips, or ties that incorporate beads, rhinestones, or charms. These accessories serve both functional and decorative purposes, adding a touch of sparkle to children’s hairstyles.
Target Audience
These accessories are popular among younger children aged 3-10. They are often used to complement special outfits or for events like parties and holidays. Parents also favor these accessories as they add a stylish element to everyday hair styling.
Major Materials
Common materials include plastic, fabric, metal, and rhinestones. The jewelry elements are securely attached to the hair accessory to ensure they do not detach during use.
Retail Price Range
- Walmart: $2 – $10
- Carrefour: €1.50 – €8
- Amazon: $3 – $12
Wholesale Prices in China
Wholesale prices for hair accessories with jewelry elements in China typically range from $0.20 to $1.00 per piece, depending on the complexity of the design and the materials used.
MOQ
The MOQ for these accessories is generally around 2,000 pieces, allowing retailers to stock a wide variety of styles.
9. Personalized Name Bracelets
Overview
Personalized name bracelets feature the child’s name or initials, often in beads or engraved on a metal plate. These bracelets are a popular choice for personalized gifts and can be customized with different colors, fonts, and designs.
Target Audience
Personalized name bracelets are popular among children aged 5-12, particularly as gifts for special occasions like birthdays or holidays. Parents and relatives often choose these bracelets for their sentimental value and the ability to customize them to the child’s preferences.
Major Materials
These bracelets are commonly made from plastic, silicone, stainless steel, and leather. The personalization is typically done through engraving or with alphabet beads.
Retail Price Range
- Walmart: $5 – $20
- Carrefour: €4 – €18
- Amazon: $7 – $25
Wholesale Prices in China
Wholesale prices for personalized name bracelets in China range from $0.50 to $2.50 per bracelet, depending on the materials and the level of customization.
MOQ
The MOQ for personalized name bracelets usually starts at 500 pieces, making them accessible for smaller retailers who offer custom jewelry services.
10. Birthstone Jewelry
Overview
Birthstone jewelry includes items like rings, necklaces, or bracelets that feature a birthstone representing the child’s birth month. These pieces are often given as birthday gifts and hold special significance for the wearer.
Target Audience
Birthstone jewelry is popular among children aged 6-14, especially as birthday gifts from parents, grandparents, or close relatives. These pieces are often treasured keepsakes and may be passed down through families.
Major Materials
Birthstone jewelry typically uses simulated stones, sterling silver, and gold-plated metals. The stones are often chosen for their resemblance to genuine gemstones, making the jewelry look elegant and meaningful.
Retail Price Range
- Walmart: $10 – $30
- Carrefour: €8 – €25
- Amazon: $12 – $35
Wholesale Prices in China
Wholesale prices for birthstone jewelry in China range from $1.00 to $5.00 per piece, depending on the materials and the quality of the simulated stones.
MOQ
The MOQ for birthstone jewelry is usually between 500 and 1,000 pieces, depending on the level of customization and the materials used.
Ready to source kids’ jewelry from China?
7 Major Manufacturers in China
1. Yiwu Stars Jewelry Co., Ltd.
Yiwu Stars Jewelry Co., Ltd. is located in Yiwu, Zhejiang Province, one of the largest wholesale markets in the world for small commodities. This company specializes in a wide range of kids’ jewelry, including charm bracelets, beaded necklaces, and personalized name bracelets. Yiwu Stars Jewelry is known for its extensive customization options, allowing clients to choose from various materials, colors, and designs. They cater to both large-scale orders and smaller, more specialized requests, making them a versatile player in the market.
2. Dongguan Hordar Jewelry Co., Ltd.
Dongguan Hordar Jewelry Co., Ltd., based in Dongguan, Guangdong Province, is recognized for producing high-quality children’s jewelry. The company focuses on the use of safe, hypoallergenic materials, ensuring that their products meet international safety standards. Hordar Jewelry is known for its innovative designs, particularly in the production of friendship bracelets, pendant necklaces, and clip-on earrings. They supply many international brands and have a strong reputation for reliability and quality.
3. Guangzhou Lailina Jewelry Co., Ltd.
Located in Guangzhou, Guangdong Province, Guangzhou Lailina Jewelry Co., Ltd. is a major producer of kids’ jewelry, with a particular focus on friendship bracelets and anklets. Lailina Jewelry has a strong export market, particularly to Europe and North America. The company prides itself on its ability to produce large volumes of high-quality jewelry at competitive prices, making them a preferred supplier for many global retailers.
4. Shenzhen Xinying Jewelry Co., Ltd.
Shenzhen Xinying Jewelry Co., Ltd. operates out of Shenzhen, Guangdong Province, and specializes in high-end kids’ jewelry. Their product line includes birthstone jewelry, personalized name bracelets, and other premium items. Xinying Jewelry uses premium materials such as sterling silver and simulated gemstones, and they offer OEM services, allowing clients to create custom designs. The company is known for its attention to detail and commitment to producing luxurious, yet affordable, children’s jewelry.
5. Yiwu Runling Jewelry Co., Ltd.
Yiwu Runling Jewelry Co., Ltd., based in Yiwu, Zhejiang Province, is a leading manufacturer of hair accessories with jewelry elements. Runling Jewelry offers a wide range of products, including hairbands, clips, and ties adorned with beads, rhinestones, and other decorative elements. The company is known for its competitive pricing and its ability to fulfill large orders, making it a go-to supplier for retail chains and online stores.
6. Zhejiang Mingchao Jewelry Co., Ltd.
Located in Wenzhou, Zhejiang Province, Zhejiang Mingchao Jewelry Co., Ltd. is renowned for its production of character-themed rings and clip-on earrings. Mingchao Jewelry has a strong presence in the Asian and European markets, where their products are popular among children. The company is committed to producing safe, durable, and affordable jewelry, with a focus on popular media characters that appeal to young consumers.
7. Ningbo Yinzhou Gold Elephant Jewelry Co., Ltd.
Ningbo Yinzhou Gold Elephant Jewelry Co., Ltd. operates out of Ningbo, Zhejiang Province, and is a major producer of kids’ jewelry, including beaded necklaces and charm bracelets. The company is known for its large-scale production capabilities and its ability to offer competitive prices without compromising on quality. Gold Elephant Jewelry is a trusted supplier for both domestic and international markets, and they offer a wide range of designs to suit different tastes and preferences.
Major Points for Quality Control
1. Material Safety
One of the most critical aspects of quality control in kids’ jewelry production is ensuring that all materials used are safe for children. Manufacturers must adhere to strict international safety standards, such as the Consumer Product Safety Improvement Act (CPSIA) in the United States and the EN71 standard in Europe. These regulations mandate that children’s products be free from hazardous substances like lead, cadmium, and nickel, which can cause serious health issues. Regular testing of raw materials and finished products is essential to ensure compliance with these standards.
In addition to chemical safety, the physical properties of the materials must also be considered. For example, metals used in jewelry should be hypoallergenic to prevent allergic reactions, and plastics should be free from phthalates and other harmful additives. Ensuring material safety not only protects children but also enhances the brand’s reputation and reduces the risk of product recalls.
2. Durability Testing
Children are often rough on their belongings, and jewelry is no exception. Therefore, durability is a key factor in quality control. Manufacturers must conduct various tests to ensure that their products can withstand the wear and tear of daily use. This includes tensile strength tests to assess the breaking point of materials like chains and clasps, as well as abrasion tests to determine the resistance of surfaces to scratching and wear.
Durability testing also involves checking the security of small parts, such as beads, charms, and stones, to ensure they do not detach easily. Items that break or disintegrate during normal use pose a choking hazard, particularly for younger children. By rigorously testing the durability of their products, manufacturers can reduce the risk of accidents and improve customer satisfaction.
3. Design and Functionality
The design of kids’ jewelry must strike a balance between aesthetic appeal and functionality. While it is important for jewelry to be visually attractive to children, it is equally important for the design to be safe and easy to use. For example, clasps and fastenings should be secure enough to prevent accidental opening, yet simple enough for a child to operate without adult assistance.
Design considerations also extend to the size and shape of the jewelry. Items should not have sharp edges or small parts that could become lodged in a child’s throat or nose. Additionally, the size of the jewelry should be appropriate for the age group it is intended for, ensuring a comfortable fit without the risk of entanglement or choking.
4. Labeling and Packaging
Proper labeling and packaging are essential components of quality control. Labels should clearly indicate the appropriate age range for the product, as well as any safety warnings or instructions for use. For example, clip-on earrings should include a warning that they are not suitable for children under a certain age due to the risk of choking.
Packaging should be designed to protect the jewelry during shipping and handling, ensuring that the items arrive in perfect condition. It should also be free of sharp edges and small, detachable components that could pose a hazard to children. Eco-friendly packaging options are increasingly important, as consumers become more conscious of environmental impacts.
Recommended Shipping Options
Shipping kids’ jewelry from China to international markets requires careful consideration of speed, cost, and reliability. Depending on the size of the order and the urgency of delivery, different shipping options are recommended:
1. Express Shipping (DHL, FedEx, UPS)
Express shipping is ideal for small to medium-sized orders that require quick delivery. Services like DHL, FedEx, and UPS offer fast transit times (typically 3-7 days) and reliable tracking, ensuring that products arrive at their destination promptly and securely. This option is best suited for retailers needing to replenish stock quickly or for urgent orders.
2. Air Freight
Air freight is a good option for larger orders where speed is still a concern, but the cost of express shipping would be prohibitive. Air freight offers a balance between cost and delivery time, with transit times ranging from 7 to 14 days. This method is ideal for medium to large retailers who need to move significant quantities of jewelry without the delays associated with sea freight.
3. Sea Freight
For bulk orders, sea freight is the most cost-effective shipping method, though it comes with longer transit times (20-40 days). This option is best suited for large wholesalers or retailers who plan their inventory well in advance and are looking to minimize shipping costs. Sea freight is also a good option for environmentally conscious companies, as it has a lower carbon footprint compared to air shipping.
Each of these shipping methods has its advantages, and the choice depends on the specific needs of the business, including budget, delivery timelines, and order size.
