Your BBB offers these tips for finding a jeweler:
• Get recommendations from friends and family. If they’re pleased with their jeweler, most likely you’ll be too.
• Make sure the jeweler has a long-standing and solid reputation.
• Shop around. Compare quality and price. Select a jeweler who’s customer-focused. A reputable jeweler is a consultant, as well as a salesperson.
• Educate yourself about the specifics of the jewelry you’re considering purchasing.
• Ask the jeweler about his or her gemological and appraisal education.
• Inquire about the jeweler’s refund and return policy.
• Get everything in writing and review your receipt.
Find out if a jeweler is a member of associations like the American Gem Society (AGS) or the Gemological Institute of America (GIA). Ask if the jeweler sells jewelry graded by the GIA or AGS. These two organizations are the industry’s leading independent grading laboratories. Reputable jewelers should be stressing the importance of top-level grading or certification.
Online shopping has changed how people shop for jewelry with thousands of jewelers just a click away. While online shopping may offer some good values, remember you won’t be able to examine, touch and try on the jewelry like you would in a jewelry store. When shopping online, shop with a familiar jeweler, get the address and phone number of the business and print out a copy of a receipt for your records.
Remember, your BBB can provide a list of local BBB Accredited jewelers and can provide business reviews on jewelers you’re considering. Simply visit www.bbb.org or call (937) 222-5825 or (800) 776-5301.
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