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Why French Brands Choose Carousel to Expand Into the U.S.

April 24, 2025

The U.S. luxury market is an enticing opportunity for French jewelry brands. But, the operational challenges of entering the American market can be daunting: setting up warehousing, handling repairs, managing customs, and coordinating fulfillment across time zones.

U.S. Import Duties on Fine Jewelry from France

The United States imposes customs duties on imported jewelry, with rates varying based on the item's material and classification under the Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS). Here are some common duty rates:​

Gold Necklaces (Mixed Link): 5.8%
Gold Necklaces (Rope): 5%
Silver Jewelry: 6.3%
Jewelry of Other Precious Metals: 7%
Pearl Jewelry (Cultured): 5.5%
Pearl Jewelry (Natural): 3.3%
Cuff Links and Studs: 8%
Imitation Jewelry (Base Metal): 8%​

De Minimis Exemption

For shipments entering the U.S., the de minimis threshold allows goods valued at $800 or less to be imported duty-free. This exemption applies to most countries, including Italy. However, it does not apply to certain products like alcohol, tobacco, and some restricted items

Bespoke manufacturing and repairs

Care that matches your craftsmanship. Carousel’s team of master goldsmiths have decades of experience restoring fine European jewelry.

  • Shank and setting repairs
  • Diamond and gemstone replacement (lab-grown or natural)
  • Gold, rose gold, and rhodium plating
  • Chain and clasp repairs
  • Pearl and bead restringing
  • Estate and insurance appraisals

Scale up, without all the operational Overhead

We are a full-service third-party logistics (3PL) provider built specifically for luxury jewelry. That includes:
  • Secure warehousing and vault storage
  • Custom-branded packaging
  • Pick and pack services for e-commerce and wholesale orders
  • U.S.-based returns processing and quality checks

Tariff Engineering & Import Optimization

Navigating U.S. customs and tariffs can be complex—and costly. Carousel offers tariff engineering services to help optimize your product classifications, reduce import fees, and stay compliant. By using strategic modifications and detailed documentation, they make your U.S. imports more efficient and affordable.

A seemless, brand aligned, experience

From the moment a piece enters Carousel’s facility, it is scanned and tracked through every stage of the process. Their private partner portal allows your brand to:

  • Upload repair requests
  • Track shipments and statuses
  • View reports on repairs, returns, and fulfillment
  • Review inventory in real time
Repairs   |   Product Customization   |   Manufacturing