Shop categories by item or material?

[AlisonHiggins]

I currently have my jewellery shop categories organized by type of item (i.e. necklaces, earrings) and am wondering if I should categorize by materials instead (i.e., paua shell, vintage cutlery, fine silver, crystals, copper), or perhaps look at a hybrid model that covers both (i.e., paua pendants and earrings). Any recommendations from other vendors would be much appreciated.

[Former_Member]

I prefer to have my jewelry categorized by type! That's the most common way that you'd search for an item!

[AlisonHiggins]

Thanks for taking the time to reply, Cynthia. I see you have several non-item-specific categories in your shop, like gifts under $25 -- great idea. I guess I was thinking that if someone found my shop because they searched an item made from a particular material, categorizing items by material would allow them to easily find other similar pieces in my offering.

[RayOfLightJewels]

When looking for something in a shop I prefer type rather than material, color or price...unless they are only selling one thing with variations.
It's more initiative to look for a necklace than to look for a bunch of things made of wood.

[StitchMarkersUSA]

I also organized by type but I have a "What's New" section as well. Have any of you heard of a reason to have or not to have a "what's new" section? Trying to fine tune my shop! Thanks.

[JewelMeShop]

I prefer categorizing by type. I think buyers do not search for specific materials.

[AlisonHiggins]

Thanks all for your input. It is much appreciated. Laura, I think a what's new section is a great idea if the number of items in your shop warrants, as your do.