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Do you know what to look for when you’re buying a piece of fine jewelry? Or are you unsure about what you’re getting and whether or not you’re getting a good value for your money?
According to Jewelers of America (JA), the national organization that provides consumer information on jewelry, consumers don’t have to be hesitant when selecting the jewelry they’ve always wanted. Just knowing what to look for makes for a safe and cherished purchase.
There are two things to watch out for when shopping for real jewelry. The first is the “discount sale.” Consumers should make sure a discount is really a discount. It’s important to find out if the merchandise on sale was in fact sold at the “regular” price quoted.
Secondly, consumers should educate themselves on the quality of jewelry before shopping for it. Here’s some important facts to be considered when buying...
• Gold: When buying good jewelry, always look for a karat mark (18K, 14K, etc.) as well as the manufacturer’s trademark stamped alongside of it. This means that the manufacturer’s whose trademark is stamped on the piece of jewelry is guaranteeing the karat mark. Watch out for jewelry that has only a karat mark and no trademark. It may not be the karatage it says it is.
• Diamonds: The “Four C’s” determine the value of a diamond. The “Four C’s” stand for Carat (unit that measures weight), Color, Clarity (internal natural inclusions or external surface irregularities) and Cut. Consumers should ask their jeweler to explain each of the “Four C’s” in detail before buying a diamond. And they should shop around for similar stones to make sure it’s a good price.
• Colored gemstones: The same factors determine the value of colored gemstones-Color (strength and purity are key), Cut, Clarity and Carat Weight.
• Cultured pearls: Look for a deep lustre and iridescence. Also, look for clear, not dull or muddy, color tones as well as for surface perfection. And, the more symmetrical the shape, the more valuable the pearl.
“When you’re looking for real jewelry, whether it’s for yourself or as a gift, you are investing in something valuable and timeless,” said JA Chairman Mike Roman. “It’s important that you purchase your jewelry from someone who you known and trust, a jeweler who is established in the community and has earned a reputation for integrity, service and reliability.”
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