Every jewellery business needs to know exactly what is in stock. Tagging each piece and linking it to software is the foundation. The two main options are barcode tags and RFID tags. Both work; they suit different sizes and priorities.
How Barcode Tagging Works
Each piece gets a small tag printed with a barcode. Staff scan it with a handheld scanner at billing, transfer or audit. The software looks up the piece's details: weight, purity, stones, making charges and HUID.
- Low cost per tag.
- Simple, familiar technology.
- Each item must be scanned individually, in line of sight.
How RFID Tagging Works
RFID tags contain a small chip and antenna. A reader detects tags by radio waves, without line of sight, and can read many tags at once.
- Bulk scanning: a tray or display can be read in seconds.
- Much faster stock audits.
- Can support security gates and tray-level tracking.
- Higher cost per tag and for readers.
Stock Audits: The Biggest Difference
With barcodes, a full stock count means scanning every piece one by one, which can take hours or days in a large showroom. With RFID, staff move a reader over trays and counters, and the software reconciles in minutes. For businesses that audit daily or weekly, this is the main reason to choose RFID.
Cost Comparison
- Barcode: low-cost tags, inexpensive printers and scanners.
- RFID: higher-cost tags, specialised printers or encoders, handheld or fixed readers.
RFID tags can often be reused when pieces are sold, which offsets some of the cost.
Practical Challenges With RFID
- Metal can interfere with radio signals, so tags designed for jewellery are required.
- Readers may pick up nearby trays during audits; process design matters.
- Staff need training on correct scanning methods.
Which Should You Choose?
- Single showroom with modest stock and occasional audits: barcode is usually enough.
- Large showrooms, chains or wholesalers with frequent audits: RFID can save significant time.
- Starting small: begin with barcode and plan the software so RFID can be added later.
"The best tag is the one your staff use correctly every single time."
Getting the Basics Right
Whichever you choose:
- Tag every piece before display.
- Record weights and details at tagging.
- Train staff to scan at every movement: billing, transfer, approval and return.
- Audit regularly and investigate differences immediately.
Common Questions
Can we move from barcode to RFID later? Yes, if your software supports both. Items can be retagged in phases, starting with high-value categories or the counters you audit most often.
How long does an RFID stock audit take? It depends on stock size and layout, but scanning trays with a handheld reader is typically far faster than scanning barcodes one by one. Plan an audit process so trays are scanned systematically and nothing is counted twice.
Do RFID tags affect the jewellery? Tags are attached externally as labels and are removed or detached at sale, just like barcode tags. Choose tags designed for jewellery so they are small and do not scratch pieces.
Can RFID prevent theft? RFID gates can raise alerts when tagged items pass through without being billed, which helps as a deterrent. Theft prevention still depends on staff processes, CCTV and regular audits.
ITELLIC Jewellery Management System
ITELLIC's jewellery software tracks every item by barcode or RFID tag, with weight, purity, stones and making charges. RFID integration is available for larger businesses. Book a free demo to discuss which approach fits your showroom.
Jewellery Management System
Built for the way jewellers actually work.
