Inquiries to Consider When Purchasing a Gemstone-Embellished Accessory
Making an Informed Choice: A Guide to Buying Diamond and Gemstone Jewellery
In the world of fine jewellery, making a purchase should be an enjoyable and personal experience. However, it's essential to ask the right questions to ensure you make a well-informed choice. Here are ten crucial questions to consider before you buy:
- What is my budget? Determine how much you are willing to spend before shopping, so you can focus on options within your range and avoid overspending.
- What are the 4 Cs of this diamond or gemstone? Ask about the Cut, Color, Clarity, and Carat weight of the stones. These factors greatly impact the quality and price of diamonds and many gemstones.
- Is the diamond or gemstone certified by a reputable lab? Ensure the stone comes with a grading report from an independent institution like GIA or AGS that verifies its quality and authenticity.
- Are there any visible blemishes or inclusions? Verify in person or with magnification that the stone has minimal flaws or imperfections that would affect appearance or durability.
- What metal is used in the jewelry setting? Confirm the type (e.g., 14k, 18k gold, platinum) and quality of the metal, noting that very soft metals like 24k gold can be less durable for everyday wear.
- Is the jewelry properly polished and symmetrical? Check the craftsmanship to ensure the stone and setting are well finished with perfect symmetry and polish for optimal sparkle and durability.
- Are the clasps, fasteners, and catches secure and functioning? Mechanical security is essential to avoid losing the piece during wear.
- Does the jeweler offer a return policy or warranty? Understand the terms in case the jewelry does not meet expectations or if repairs are needed after purchase.
- How has the jeweler priced the item compared to market standards? Learn if prices are competitive and if there is room to save by slightly adjusting carat size or clarity without noticeable loss in appearance.
- Is the jeweller reputable and knowledgeable? Choose a jeweller with good reviews and credentials, who can provide education and independent appraisals when requested.
For gemstones, a sales associate should discuss the stone's colour, clarity, visible inclusions, and whether it is a particular birthstone. Some gem materials are heat sensitive, react badly to commercial cleaners, or are damaged by ultrasonic cleaning, so it's crucial to ask about the stone's specific care requirements.
Opals, which are relatively soft, are often sold with a bezel or 'rub-over' precious metal setting to protect the stone. Sapphires can be described as 'cornflower', 'Ceylon blue', or 'Peacock blue'. Gemstones with stars or cat's eye optical effects are typically fashioned into cabochons to showcase this natural phenomenon.
Many brands, businesses, and designers offer recycled precious metals and Fairtrade options for jewellery. 18K yellow gold and platinum are common choices for fine jewellery, but 18K white gold is often rhodium-plated to enhance its bright white color.
Tanzanite is sometimes described as 'AAA', 'AA', or 'A' to denote quality, but there is no standard quality grading scale for tanzanite.
These questions help you evaluate quality, authenticity, durability, price fairness, and seller reliability before purchasing diamond or gemstone jewellery.
- To enhance one's knowledge in gemmology, consider enrolling in a course or workshop focused on the topic.
- If you're interested in the world of gemstones, you might find engaging articles and publications adding to your favorite library of resources.
- When decorating your home-and-garden, consider incorporating unique diamond or gemstone jewellery pieces into your lifestyle for a touch of elegance.
- While shopping for home decor, don't overlook the possibility of incorporating gemstones or diamonds into your jewelry collection.
