Tips for Jewelry Shopping

When you are in the market for a piece of fine jewelry, you may be surprised at how complex a process it can be. While most jewelers intend to give you value for your money, when large sums of money are involved, it is always wise to protect yourself with knowledge and reasonable precautions to ensure you get what you pay for.

Here are ten tips to help you avoid pitfalls that the unsavy jewelry shopper is prey to. Get the best value for your budget, whether online or in a traditional jewelry store.

When shopping online, be sure to check the reputation of companies you are considering doing business with. Some companies appear to be selling their jewelry at deeply discounted prices, but after you make your bargain purchase, they call you to confirm the order and give you the hard sell, trying to upsell you to more or higher priced pieces. When you refuse to change your original order, your original piece is suddenly backordered until the second Tuesday of Forever. Google the company you are planning to do business with and see what others have to say about their business ethics.

Before you decide to make a jewelry purchase, get all the details in writing and the refund and return instructions and policies.

Note phone number and address so you can write or call for help with a problem or any questions you may have. Speaking with a real person is essential. If you do have a problem, first attempt to solve it with the company, but don’t hesitate to contact the BBB or consumer protection organization if you can’t resolve the problem with the jewelry company.

When shopping in a jewelry store, inspect the piece you are considering carefully and notice the markings on metal jewelry.

Establish the refund policy of the store before you make your purchase. A reputable jeweler will have this in writing. Inquire whether the pearls you are considering are natural, artificial or cultured. Inquire whether gems have been treated and whether this treatment requires special care.

If you are shopping with a store that has been recommended by a friend or family member, mention this to the jeweler so that he knows his reputation is on the line.

Have the jeweler make a notation the pertinent information such as the weight or size of the gem. Ask if a grading report is available from a gemological laboratory.