When buying jewelry (whether online, which has become too convenient, or in-store) always proceed with caution and make sure your purchase is properly described and arrives in your hands with the proper documentation and treatment declarations.

Regardless of where you are purchasing jewelry, you will want to consider these 6 things before you click that “purchase” button:

1. Always Research the seller
   Do your due diligence on the seller first. Read other buyers’ comments or reviews, to see whether the seller has a reputation for being ethical, fair, and easy to work with.  Verify association with national organizations like the American Gem Society (this is a must)!  The American Gem Society is the country’s preeminent jewelry trade organization dedicated to consumer protection.  Which means, if you’re looking to buy jewelry, you just clicked on the right website.
2. Look Local
   The same applies to local jewelry stores, with the addition that an independent jeweler is preferred to a big box retailer chain.  See if the local jeweler has or can get the same or similar piece and match the price of the online retailer.  Handling disputes after the sale will always be easier dealing with a local jeweler.
3. Read the sales fine print
   Review the seller’s privacy policy to see whether they share your email or contact information with third-party organizations.  Carefully read their sales exchange and return policy to ensure that if you’re not happy with what you received, or something comes to you damaged, you will have some recourse.  Do they accept a Return for refund, Exchange or Store Credit?
4. Request lots of extra pictures
   Ask the seller for detailed pictures and descriptions to ensure the quality of the jewelry you’re purchasing.  Especially for high-end watches!  If the seller claims the piece is signed or the metal is a certain quality, request a photo of the signature or metal purity stamp on the piece.  NOTE:  You can also ask that the piece be sent to the Jewelry Judge Ben Gordon for review before the purchase is charged.
5. Make sure it’s packaged properly
   The most common cause of damage to jewelry are Scratches!   So make sure that your piece is packaged carefully and tightly, so it cannot be easily tossed around in transit.  Request that the seller pack each individual item in a soft cloth pouch that can be sealed or tied shut so the piece can’t come loose during shipping.   Additionally, twisting and bending of semi-rigid chains or other jewelry pieces may cause permanent damage.  Pay extra if needed to ensure that your item is shipped in a box that is large enough.
6. Verify your insurance coverage
   When you are purchasing expensive diamonds, gemstones, and jewelry with precious metals, there is no guarantee that your existing homeowners policy will provide sufficient protection if the piece is lost, damaged, or stolen.  Before buying a piece, contact your agent to verify the coverage amounts you have in place.  Consider speaking with an insurance company specializing in jewelry, we can recommend a few.  Consider adding automatic coverage for newly acquired jewelry to ensure that your purchase is protected from the moment you click “buy.”

For information you can trust, consult the Jewelry Judge Ben Gordon today.

With our NEW Service “Virtual Jewelry Appraisal” you can you can get a value for your jewelry without having to leave your home. Call us and we will setup a Skype or Face-Time session for a consultation. Information you can trust to place a value on your valuables. Book Appointment  On-Line  or  Call 713-961-1432

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