There are a lot of things to take into consideration when buying Hemp Jewelry on-line.  Photographs are good but don't compare to examining a necklace in person and up close.  Regardless, there are questions that you can ask to make sure you are getting your money's worth.  Some of these you can determine yourself from the item picture. 

1. Is the stitching even and tight? - Mistakes in the stitching are obvious if you know what to look for.  Look for disruptions in the weave pattern.  These are mistakes in the knotting of the hemp and will become more noticeable with wear.  Stitches should be flat and even.  If the hemp twists, look closely at the edges of the twists for knot uniformity.  Even quality hemp cord has variances in thickness but a skilled designer knows how to work with the hemp to create a professional piece. 
   
2. Price - Pricing has nothing to do with quality.  There are just as many sellers making hemp jewelry for the pleasure of a satisfied customer as there are sellers trying to make a quick buck.  Hemp Jewelry is not expensive to make.  There are exceptions depending on the beads used.  Use your best judgment when judging price.  There are some very affordable necklaces available from hemp jewelers who are in business for reasons other than profit.
3. Hemp cord weight - The Two most popular hemp weights are 20 lb test cord and 48 lb test cord.  20 lb test cord is best suited for delicate necklaces or necklaces with smaller beads, with some exceptions.  48 lb test is the ideal weight for most necklaces.  It is durable, not too bulky and is usually of the best quality.  20 lb weight is less expensive and less durable.  Some jewelers choose the 20 lb cord for reasons of cost.  Make sure to ask if the weight is not listed. 
   
4. Hemp cord quality - As far as the hemp cord quality is concerned, you do get what you pay for.  A dedicated hemp jeweler will only buy the best.  If the hemp itself looks cheap, it probobly is cheap.
   
5. Size - When buying a choker, you want the necklace to be at least 1 inch longer than your actual neck size.  Any smaller and you will feel like you are literally choking.  Anklets will fit you best with an extra 1/2 to 1 1/2 inches.  You need room for your foot to flex or it will dig in to your ankle when you walk.  Bracelets are a bit easier, depending on how loose you want them to be.  You can have a tight fit at 1/4 inch extra in size or add and inch and a half for a comfortably loose fit.  Loose fitting bracelets tend to catch on things, so I recommend a snug fit.
6. Knots - There are 2 basic knotting styles, flat knot and twist.  The twist knot looks very cool but doesn't hold up to everyday wear.  If you plan on wearing your necklace often, go for the flat knot.  The twists tend to untwist with excessive wear.  If you will be wearing your necklace only occasionally, than a twist knot should be fine.  I have known people wear their flat knot hemp necklace for years without taking it them off. 
   

The perfect necklace is a necklace that was made for you with care.  A skilled hemp jeweler will not only make excellent pieces but they will love what they do...and you will love what they create. 

Please vote on this guide if you found it helpful.  Thanks.