Purchasing jewelry should be an enjoyable experience, not a stressful one. Therefore, having a knowledgeable jeweler is essential for understanding the jewelry you wish to buy. Click here for advice on finding reputable jewelers you can trust.
Keyword(s): reputable jewelers
What comes first – the jewelry or the jeweler?
Sometimes you see an ad and immediately know what you want. Other times, you need the jeweler’s guidance. That’s where we can assist.
The U.S. jewelry market is valued at $35 billion annually. However, with nearly 900 jewelers closing down last year, whom can you trust?
Finding reputable jewelers who care more about their customers than their profits can be challenging. We’re here to offer tips on identifying such jewelers so you can leave with both a beautiful piece of jewelry and peace of mind.
Traits of Trustworthy Jewelers
Buying jewelry is an investment that goes beyond just selecting an item and swiping your credit card; it’s something you’ll cherish for a lifetime. Thus, building a relationship with the jeweler is crucial.
But how can you tell if a jeweler is interested in more than just making a quick sale?
Your first step should be to ask for recommendations. Did your brother recently propose? Where did he purchase the ring, and how was his experience? Would he shop there again?
While you should trust the opinions of your family and friends, don’t just settle for the first name you hear. Conduct your own research on the jeweler, as your priorities might differ from theirs.
Additionally, if you hear negative feedback about a retailer, ask for detailed reasons. Then, do what everyone does nowadays—read reviews!
Check credentials and how long the jeweler has been in business. Many jewelers with fraudulent practices don’t last long. You want a jeweler who will still be around for future purchases.
People buy jewelry for various occasions: engagements, weddings, heirlooms, gifts, or personal treats. A good jeweler listens to your needs without pushing you toward more expensive, unnecessary items. If you feel pressured, it’s time to move on.
If a salesperson is unwilling to answer your questions or doesn’t know the answers, that’s a red flag. A trustworthy jeweler will be transparent about the buying process and the items they’re selling.
A reputable jeweler will not only answer your questions but also educate you. They will explain the 4C’s of diamonds and allow you to inspect the gem under a gemological microscope, pointing out imperfections. For diamonds, they will use a full-spectrum light or color grading stones for comparison.
They also take pride in the quality of precious metals, readily showing you the stamp verifying the metal’s content (10K, 14K, 18K for gold or PLT for platinum).
Established and trusted jewelers employ more than just salespeople. They have an in-house gemologist well-versed in all aspects of jewelry. They will also have a bench jeweler for resizing and repairs. If they outsource these services, make sure you are comfortable with the third party they use.
Some jewelers even offer a designer for custom pieces. Inquire about this option. It may not be necessary now, but it could be in the future.
Regardless of the jewelry piece you’re purchasing, you should have at least two or three options. A reputable jeweler offers a diverse selection of styles and price points.
Jewelers who carry collections from top designers like David Yurman, John Hardy, and Kendra Scott are usually reliable, as these designers are selective about their sellers.
Chain retailers provide warranties on their jewelry, but make sure you understand what is covered. Jewelry can break or get damaged for multiple reasons, so ensure the warranty covers various scenarios. If not, ask about extended warranties.
If a piece doesn’t meet your expectations after a few weeks, it’s crucial to know the return or exchange policy. This is especially important for online shopping where you can’t physically try on the piece.
You should never feel pressured to make a purchase you are not comfortable with. Feel free to browse the showroom without being pushed toward more expensive items.
A good jeweler lets you take your time, answers questions patiently, and doesn’t rush you into a decision.
If you encounter any red flags or feel hurried, it’s time to find another jeweler.
Experience Luxurious yet Affordable Jewelry with Us
We know finding reputable jewelers is tough. At Artful Bracelets, we’ve made the process easier. We offer high-quality jewelry without the high price tag, boasting over one million pieces sold and a vast selection that’s making industry waves.
Our blog is designed to educate you, the consumer, on everything you need to know before purchasing jewelry. From verifying if your silver is genuine to insights on the latest trend in the industry—adjustable chains.
Discover why we’ve been “the best-kept secret in the jewelry industry” for over a decade. Check out our Costco Roadshow schedule or browse our current sales. We offer fast and free* shipping within the U.S.
*Free for orders over $50
←
Related Posts
