MOQ stands for Minimum Order Quantity. It is the smallest number of units a supplier will produce or ship in one order. At CM Tech Gem, MOQ starts from 500 pieces per style, in increments of 100. We work with wholesale buyers, brands and bulk purchasers—single-piece retail orders fall outside our program.
This threshold exists because jewelry manufacturing involves setup costs: mold preparation, plating baths, polishing, quality checks and packaging. That starting point keeps unit costs competitive while ensuring every piece meets the same finish standard.
What Is MOQ and Why Does It Matter?
MOQ protects both the buyer and the supplier. For the supplier, it covers fixed production costs. For the buyer, it unlocks better pricing and consistent quality. Without an MOQ, small orders would need to absorb the same setup costs, making each piece far more expensive.
How 500-Piece MOQ Affects Your Unit Cost
At lower volumes, fixed costs get spread across fewer units, pushing the price per piece up. At that level the cost curve flattens, which is why many wholesale buyers treat it as their starting batch and scale up on reorder.
- Better per-unit pricing than small test orders.
- Consistent plating and stone matching across the batch.
- Eligible for simple OEM touches such as laser logo or custom cards.
Can You Mix Colors or Sizes Within the MOQ?
Yes, in most cases. A 500-piece ring order can be split across two or three plated colors, or across standard ring sizes. The same applies to necklaces and bracelets, where you might split between gold-tone and silver-tone finishes. Always confirm the split ratio before production so the factory can plan plating runs efficiently.
MOQ vs. Sampling: When to Order Samples First
Before committing to 500 pieces, order a small sample set. Samples let you check weight, clasp strength, stone setting and plating color under your own lighting. Once approved, the full production run follows the same spec. Read our tips on choosing a reliable hardware jewelry supplier before you request samples.
Plan Your First 500-Piece Order
Start with your best-selling category. For many buyers, that means rings or earrings. Build a small matrix of styles, colors and sizes, then send it with your quote request. Our team reviews every RFQ and confirms material, wholesale quantity and lead time before production.
For a deeper look at materials, see our guide on stainless steel vs titanium steel.
