Buying jewelry is fun and exciting. Whether it’s a beautiful gold watch or a tiny ladies’ anklet, new jewelry has a certain allure to it. As an accessory, beautiful jewelry can add a spark to a dull outfit or make an elegant outfit look even more spectacular.
This is why you must be incredibly keen when going on a jewelry purchase. To ensure that the jewelry you purchase is the best for you, these are the things you ought to consider:
1. Examine the Gems
Before signing off on that jewelry purchase, it is essential that you inspect the gems and how it’s been attached. If the gem is loose, this means it wasn’t well secured when it was mounted. Such a gem could easily fall out.
Make sure to look out for any damaged stones. Ask to look at the piece using the jeweler’s loupe and check for abraded facets and chips.
2. Make Sure the Metal is Unscratched
When you’re about to make a jewelry purchase, make sure the metal surface doesn’t have any scratches, as well. Metal finishes are easy to scratch and can look bad. Be on the look-out for this!
3. Consider the Jeweler’s Experience
When looking for custom jewelry and engagement rings, it is crucial to consult an experienced jeweler. Consider one who has both jewelry manufacturing training and formal gemological education. This will help you ensure that the jeweler you opt for is capable of delivering top-notch quality.
4. Look for The Maker’s Mark
It is essential to look for the maker’s mark every time you are buying jewelry. This is a stamp of authenticity, meaning it proves that a specific manufacturer made it. In the U.S., the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) directs that a quality stamp accompanies the maker’s mark. The quality stamp indicates the metal used and its fineness. These stamps are made on inconspicuous edges of the jewelry, like inside a ring’s shank.
5. Check on the Jewelry’s Quality
The quality of the item is essential to consider during your jewelry purchase. Fine jewelry is made from a host of metals- gold, silver, titanium, and platinum. Before you buy that jewelry, ensure that its quality is up to par.
Look at the metal’s karat weight; this is a measure of the metal’s purity. Higher karats mean that the metal is purer. If the jewelry you wish to buy has gems and stones, make sure that these are of high quality too.
6. Consider Your Overall Style
When buying jewelry, it’s essential to keep your style and preferences in mind. It will help you to go through your wardrobe before walking into that jewelry store. If you wear formal, conservative outfits, small inconspicuous jewelry will do- for example, cuffs and diamond earrings.
Buying jewelry on the fly may seem fun and spontaneous until you regret buying large ugly earrings you know you can’t wear.
7. Consider the Price Range
When going on a jewelry purchase, set a specific amount of money you wish to spend. This will make sure you don’t go way off-budget. To get value for your money, you could have a pendant or ring customized to give your jewelry a more personalized edge.
Make sure you buy jewelry that’s reasonably priced. Be wary of incredibly cheap jewelry, as this may speak volumes about its quality.
You need to be very keen when buying jewelry. Make sure that all the pieces are authentic and that none of the gems are loose. This will ensure you don’t purchase bridal jewelry or even watches that ultimately disappoint you.
Statistics show that more than 38 million Americans buy fine jewelry and watches each year. If you’ve always wanted to start a modest jewelry collection, these tips may help you along!