Diamonds, Pearls & Other Gemstones
A Jewelry Checklist
When you're in the market for a diamond, gemstone or other piece of jewelry for yourself or someone you love, shop around. Compare quality, price, and service. If you're not familiar with any jewelers in your area, ask family members, friends, and co-workers for recommendations. You also should:
- Ask for the store's refund and return policy before you buy diamonds or gem stones.
- Check for the appropriate markings on metal jewelry.
- Ask whether the pearls are natural, cultured, or imitation.
- Ask whether a diamond or gem stone is natural, laboratory-created, or imitation.
- Ask whether the diamond or gemstone has been treated. Is the change permanent? Is special care required?
Make sure the jeweler writes on the sales receipt any information you relied on when making your purchase, such as the gem's weight or size. Some jewelers also may supply a grading report from a gemological laboratory.
In addition, these tips apply when you're shopping for any diamond, gemstone, silver or gold jewelry online:
- Shop with companies you know or do some homework before buying to make sure a company is legitimate before doing business with it.
- Get the details about the product, as well as the merchant's refund and return policies, before you buy.
- Look for an address to write to or a phone number to call if you have a question, a problem or need help
More Gemstone Jewelry Information
If you have a problem with the stones or jewelry you purchased, first try to resolve it with the jeweler. If you are dissatisfied with the response, contact your local Better Business Bureau or local consumer protection agency. You also may contact the Jewelers Vigilance Committee's Alternative Dispute Resolution Service. This program assists consumers and businesses in resolving disputes about jewelry. The Jewelers Vigilance Committee (JVC) is an independent, non-profit organization formed to advance ethical practices in the jewelry industry.
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