Jewelry comes with a price; fine jewelry collection can even cost a fortune, yet, people continue to buy it. Buyers either buy it for themselves or give it as a gift to someone dear. Either way, it is meant to be a special. Nevertheless, buying jewelry can be a daunting process. It can even be complicated especially when buying exquisite diamond or rare gem pieces because there are grades to consider. One of the most important things to consider when buying a precious item is who or where to buy. Buying from credible jewelry stores is one’s best bet when investing on a piece or even sets of jewelry.
Who will not be intimidated when buying expensive jewelry? There are indeed too many options and too many zeroes on the price tags. How do you start? Here are some tips to consider:
• Do the Smart Research – Whether you buy offline or online, it is important to do the smart thing and that is to do some research. If you already know where to go for the buy, it is still important to compare the prices between jewelry stores. If you are buying the uncut diamonds, the prices can be variable because of the cut, the clarity, and the carat. Finding an expert can be the most practical way to go about the process. Asking for proofs like the certificates from accredited gemologist is also essential.
• What’s in a Name - There is no doubt that buying jewelry from Tiffany or Cartier boasts of quality; but nothing lesser can be expected at the price that this jewelry are sold in these jewelry stores. Usually, buying from these stores can mean paying 80 percent more. It is indeed much sensible to go to other stores that similarly enjoy good reputation in the community. It is, however, too risky to buy from people or from small stores whom you hardly know. The name goes with credibility. Ask around; do your research.
• Weight in Silver and Gold – Who doesn’t want diamonds set in platinum? However, we all know that this jewelry can be immensely expensive. Even gold prices are running so high. One good alternative is buying silver jewelry that is not only cheaper but also in vogue. If you really like gold jewelry, you can opt for lower gold karat quality. Instead of buying 24k gold, you can go for 18K, 14k, or 10k gold that are cheaper. Besides lower karat gold, why don’t you use silver jewelry instead? These are not only cheaper. These are also in fashion.
• Timeless Pearls – It is true that “diamonds are forever” and a “woman’s best friend.” Nevertheless, when a woman does not have enough juice, what else is there to hope for? Timeless and classic pearls make the best alternative. Pearls never fail to look “at home” with any woman under any kind of occasion. A simple daily garb can be rendered chic and classic with the right pearl jewelry. Go for natural pearls if you can afford it or settle with the cultured ones, which are cheaper, but still look good with the right design and color. Look for lustrous and large pearls that look natural. Forget the perfect ones; natural pearls are less perfect.
• Enjoying colors – Discover the fun of wearing colored jewelry. These are generally cheaper than diamonds, but these are definitely not less fun! There are also colored diamonds that can give wearers, especially teen girls and young professionals, the casual ambiance, but they are just too expensive. If you want colored jewelry that is less expensive, go for colored gemstones. Ruby, sapphire and emerald are expensive too, but there are other gems with the tints of red, yellow and green that can be just as chic and fun.
Before you try buying from some offline jewelry stores, get around to doing some canvassing in online stores first. This is a great way to get ideas. If you are buying online, learn some practical tips about buying jewelry from online stores.