We need special approval and specific certificates to sell jewelry on TikTok Shop. The platform classifies most fine jewelry as a restricted category due to its high value and potential for fraud.
It's a process, but one that unlocks a massive, engaged audience. Keep reading to break down each requirement into simple, actionable steps so you can start selling faster.
Key Takeaways
- Verify your identity and set up a proper seller account before applying.
- Gather the right lab certificates for gold, diamonds, and precious gems.
- Use high-quality images and follow strict listing rules to avoid penalties.
Getting Your Seller Account Ready
Before you think about listing a single item, your seller account must be set up correctly. TikTok Shop requires you to be at least 18 years old. You will need to verify your identity with a government-issued ID, like a driver's license or passport.
We also need to provide tax information. For individual sellers in the US, this is a W-9 form. For businesses, you need an Employer Identification Number (EIN). Your bank account for receiving payouts must match the name on your ID and tax forms. This helps TikTok ensure everything is legitimate.
Your shop must also maintain a good Shop Performance Score (SPS). You need to keep this score above 2.5. This means providing good customer service, shipping orders on time, and following all platform rules. Selling counterfeit items is strictly prohibited and will get your shop suspended quickly.
Understanding Category Permissions
Not all jewelry is treated the same on TikTok Shop. This is a crucial point many sellers miss. Fine jewelry, especially items made with precious metals like gold and platinum or featuring genuine gemstones like diamonds and rubies, is in a special category.
This category requires an invite or special approval from TikTok. You cannot list these items without this permission. The application happens through the TikTok Shop Seller Center. TikTok reviews your application to ensure you are a trustworthy seller.
Costume or fashion jewelry is different. Items that are plated, made with imitation stones, or are clearly not fine jewelry can often be listed under a standard category without extra documents. Always check TikTok's official Restricted Products Policy to see where your specific jewelry fits.
Gathering Your Product Documentation
This is the most detailed part. Each type of fine jewelry needs its own proof of authenticity. You cannot use the same certificate for all your products.
For precious colored gemstones like rubies, sapphires, and emeralds, certificates from gemological institutes like GIA, AGS, AIG, or IGI are required. Other fine jewelry, like pieces made with silver, pearls, or semiprecious stones, might not need specific certificates, but high-quality proof is still essential.
- Gold: Purity certificate from a US lab (SGS, API).
- Diamonds: GIA or IGI certificate matching the stone.
- Gemstones: AGS or GIA report for rubies, sapphires, emeralds.
When you submit this documentation, the images of the certificates must be clear and unedited. Your product photos should be high-resolution, showing the item from all angles. This visual proof is as important as the certificates themselves.
Following Listing and Operational Rules
Once you have approval and your documents, listing your products correctly is key. You will submit the specific documents for each product after your category is approved. Your product titles, descriptions, and images must be accurate and not misleading.
Avoid making claims that we cannot prove. The referral fees for jewelry vary. For high-value categories like diamond, gold, jade, platinum, and ruby, the fee is 5% of the sale price. For silver, pearl, amber, and semiprecious stones, it's 6%.
FAQs
Do I need special approval to sell jewelry on TikTok Shop?
Yes, most fine jewelry needs special approval. TikTok Shop treats gold, diamonds, and real gemstones as restricted items. This is to protect buyers from fake or unsafe products. Before selling, you must apply for permission in the Seller Center.
What age do I need to be to sell jewelry on TikTok Shop?
You must be at least 18 years old to sell on TikTok Shop. TikTok will ask for a government ID, like a passport or driver’s license, to confirm your age. This rule helps keep the platform safe and legal
What documents do I need to open a jewelry seller account?
You need a government ID to prove who you are. We also need tax information, like a W-9 form if you are an individual seller in the US.
Do I need certificates for gold jewelry?
Yes, gold jewelry needs a purity certificate. This certificate must come from a trusted lab like SGS or API. It shows how pure the gold is, such as 14K or 18K.
What certificates are needed for diamonds?
Diamonds often need special certificates. Natural diamonds usually need a report from GIA or AGS. Lab-made diamonds need a certificate from IGI or GIA.
Can I sell costume or fashion jewelry easily?
Yes, costume or fashion jewelry is much easier to sell. These items are usually made with plated metals or fake stones. They often do not need special certificates or approval.
Why does TikTok Shop check jewelry so strictly?
TikTok checks jewelry closely because it is valuable and easy to fake. Strict rules protect buyers from scams and protect honest sellers too.
What is a Shop Performance Score and why does it matter?
The Shop Performance Score, or SPS, shows how well your shop performs. It looks at things like shipping speed, customer reviews, and rule violations.
Can I sell jewelry during live streams?
Yes, live selling is allowed and very popular for jewelry. Live videos help buyers see the jewelry clearly and ask questions. This builds trust and boosts sales.
How long does jewelry approval usually take?
Approval time can vary. Sometimes it takes a few days, and sometimes longer if documents are missing or unclear. Clear photos and correct certificates help speed things up.
Your Path to TikTok Shop Approval
Selling jewelry on TikTok Shop is a detailed process, but it’s designed to protect both you and the buyer. By carefully preparing your seller account, seeking the right category permissions, and gathering the necessary product documentation, you position yourself for success.
The platform rewards sellers who are thorough and transparent. Focus on building a trustworthy shop with high-quality products, and we can tap into a vibrant, growing marketplace. Start organizing your documents today and take the first step toward launching your jewelry business on TikTok Shop with Branvas.