As a first-time fine jewelry buyer, you may have questions about the purchasing process, jewelry materials, and proper care. Working with a local jewelry store gives you the opportunity to ask questions to a jewelry professional who can answer with expert insight. Whether you are looking to purchase an engagement ring, anniversary gift, or custom jewelry, here are 10 questions you should ask before buying fine jewelry.
1. What Type of Metal is Best for My Needs?
The type of metal you select for the piece is an important decision. Some of the most popular metals include gold, platinum, and sterling silver. Durability, price, allergies, and personal style are all aspects to consider when selecting a metal. Your jeweler can go over your options and help you settle on the best metal for you or the jewelry recipient.
2. How is the Quality of the Diamond Determined?
Diamond quality is evaluated using the 4C’s, which stand for cut, color, clarity, and carat weight. These factors contribute to the stone’s beauty, value, and rarity. A jeweler can walk you through the 4C’s for the diamond you are considering. Colored gemstones follow a slightly different evaluation criterion, with the most emphasis of the four factors placed on color.
3. How Should I Care for and Maintain My Jewelry?
Fine jewelry is not inexpensive. You should take proper care of your jewelry so it continues to look its best for years to come. Although it can vary depending on metal type and gemstones, you generally want to avoid using harsh cleansers, store pieces separately and have your jeweler clean and inspect your jewelry annually. Ask your local jewelry professional about the proper care of your piece.
4. How Can I Determine the Right Ring Size?
Jewelers can measure your finger with a ring sizing tool to find the right fit. Your fingers can change size throughout the day, so it is best to check your size at the end of the day when your fingers are at their largest. It is also advisable to avoid measuring your ring size when your hands are cold, as this can make your fingers appear smaller. Your size can also vary depending on the width of the band or the ring style. A jeweler can help you determine the right fit for the ring you want.
5. Can This Piece Be Resized or Customized?
For size-specific pieces, such as rings, it is important to know if they can be resized in the future. Most rings can be resized, but intricate designs or certain metals may not be able to be altered. For example, eternity bands, which feature gemstones all the way around, may not be able to be sized. Often, more than two sizes can change the shape of many ring styles, putting the gemstones at risk of becoming loose or pushing against each other. Check with your jeweler to ensure it can be resized, especially if the ring is a gift.
6. What is the Difference Between Natural, Treated and Synthetic Gemstones?
When shopping for fine jewelry, you will most likely come across four types of gemstones: natural, treated, synthetic, and simulants. Natural gemstones are mined from the earth. Treated gemstones have been enhanced for color, clarity, stability, or to mimic other materials. Synthetic gemstones are created in a lab, but they have the same chemical properties as natural gemstones. Simulants are stones that are not the same type of material, but are meant to look like another, usually more valuable, gemstone. Discuss your options with a jewelry professional to decide which gemstone type is right for you.
7. Is This Jewelry Handmade or Mass-Produced?
Handmade pieces often involve more labor, as well as time from design to creation and gemstone setting, which can result in higher quality and price. Mass-produced pieces are usually less expensive, but they do not have the same uniqueness as a custom piece. If you are purchasing fine jewelry for a special occasion, a custom piece may be the way to go, if it fits within your budget.
8. What Should I Look for in the Setting of a Gemstone?
As the setting is what keeps the gemstone in place, you want it to be sturdy and secure. Make sure it securely holds the gemstone without any visible gaps or weak prongs. High-quality settings protect the gemstone and enhance its beauty. You should also take the wearer’s lifestyle into consideration. For example, a person who does not want to take the jewelry off for everyday wear will likely want a protective setting style, such as a bezel or sturdier prongs, to reduce the likelihood of needing to replace the gemstones or mounting frequently.
9. How Do I Make the Best Choice for a Piece?
Although there are many factors to consider when choosing a piece, the most important consideration is how much you like the item. You should purchase a piece of jewelry for yourself because you love it. If the piece is a gift, pick out an item that you will enjoy giving and that the recipient will cherish for years to come.
10. Is It Better to Buy Loose Gemstones or Those Already Set in Jewelry?
There are positives to both options. Loose gemstones allow you to evaluate the stones up close and also customize the final look of the piece by having them set in a specific configuration. Gemstones that are already set in jewelry can be worn immediately, which adds convenience. Talk with your local jeweler to help you make a choice.
Find a Jeweler Near You
Connect with an AGS jeweler for personalized guidance and expert advice as you start your fine jewelry buying journey. Check out our find a jeweler page to locate a jewelry professional near you.