When it comes to sourcing quality jewelry, you obviously have standards – but this goes far beyond just the type of jewelry you want to purchase. In fact, one of the most crucial factors for purchasing jewelry is the competency of the jeweler that you’re working with.
It’s important that you’re working with a professional who you trust, however, this can often be much easier said than done. You need a jeweler who has the knowledge and training to help you make an informed purchase, as well as the willingness to understand your preferences while providing you with a variety of options.
How can you be sure that the jeweler you’re hoping to work with is as professional, educated, and trustworthy as you’d like? Even more, how on earth are you supposed to find prospective jewelers in your area?
I’ve got you covered. Check out our guide below to get the best tips, tricks, and most comprehensive advice when it comes to choosing a competent jeweler who has your best interest in mind.
How Can I Be Sure I Can Trust a Prospective Jeweler?
If you’ve taken the first steps that go into locating a few prospective jewelers, then you’re already well on your way to picking out the perfect professional for you. But, before you can decide on someone to work with, you’ll need to ask yourself a few different questions to make sure that they’re the right fit. When dealing with jewelers, run through this quick checklist to see if they hit your requirements.
How Long Have They Been in Business?
I’m not saying anything bad about new jewelers in the business, in fact, some of the best jewelers in your area could be quite new to the business. However, experience definitely has its perks. Ask yourself, “has this jeweler been in the business a long time?” A good reputation is everything for a jeweler, so often, companies that misrepresent themselves and don’t practice good business ethics can’t stay in the industry too long.
Do They Have Credentials?
Most of the qualified jewelers in the industry will have professional credentials. If you don’t see them clearly posted in the jewelers’ store, ask them if you can see them! A qualified jeweler will appreciate your thoroughness and your interest in their qualifications.
How are Their Past Reviews?
I understand that reviews are objective and can sometimes be misleading, but they’re also a fantastic way to gauge information about the jeweler you’re hoping to work with. If your prospective jeweler doesn’t have any positive reviews, they’re likely not a great fit for you. Alternatively, no reviews at all could mean the same exact thing. You want to work with someone who’s so qualified, professional, and educated, that they’re past clients are happy to leave them positive, uplifting reviews to encourage new clients.
What’s Their Demeanor Like?
Qualifications and education are important, but the jeweler’s personality and demeanor are, too. When you interact with he or she, do you feel like they’re being patient, nice, and helpful? Are they happy and readily able to answer your questions? A good jeweler is ready to have long, detailed discussions with you and isn’t interested in pushing you toward higher-priced items just to make a sale. Additionally, they won’t pressure you into making a decision, instead, allowing you plenty of time to weigh your pros and cons and make the right choice for you.
Integrity – Do They Have It?
Usually, you can tell when someone isn’t being upfront with you, and it’s important to make that distinction when you’re working with a prospective jeweler. Do you feel that this person is being a straight-shooter? Make sure you’re educated enough on what you’re looking for to have a grasp on whether or not they’re being dishonest with you.
What’s Their Equipment Set-Up?
I know you’re not an expert on jewelry (that’s why you’re trying to find an honest, well-respected professional to help guide you), but it’s important to take a look at the equipment your prospective jeweler is working with. Does it appear that they have the ability and products to help them spot imperfections in diamonds? Any jeweler worth their salt will have a 10x loupe where they can see a gem up close. Ensure they have the tools they need to do the best job possible for you.
Are They Educating You During the Process?
A good jeweler won’t just hand you products and let you figure out the rest. Instead, they’ll educate you during the entire production and walk you through the process. Has your jeweler ever discussed the 4 Cs with you? If not, you might want to work with another jeweler. A quality professional will walk you through what each of these elements are, teach you how to spot them, and continuously educate you throughout the process.
Have You Asked About the Fine Print and Final Details?
A quality jeweler isn’t afraid to talk about the down-and-dirty final details. Make sure you’re working with someone who will openly and honestly discuss things like return policies, receipts, and appraisals that cover the full range of details like the type of gem you’re purchasing, the value, size, quality, color, and more. Further, ensure that your jeweler is comfortable guaranteeing the information on the back of your receipt, so you are able to return the jewelry if something isn’t correct – this is a normal request, so don’t feel insecure asking about it. Legitimate, quality businesses will be more than happy to oblige by this. Finally, don’t be too scared to ask about certificates when it comes to gems. Your jeweler should be happy to provide you with the necessary certificate from third-party laboratory like the Gemological Institute of America, the Gemological Science International, or the International Gemological Institute.
How to Find a Professional Jeweler
The very first step in your jeweler journey is finding a few to compare against each other. But if you’re a novice jeweler-locator, this can be the toughest part. When it comes to finding quality jewelers consider these two things:
Impeccable Credentials
Always look for a jeweler who has excellent credentials from an international gemological school like GIA, I.G.I, G.S.I, AGS or HRD. Don’t know how to check this? Look into the organization’s online directory to see if your prospective jeweler is on their official list.
Positive Reputation
Credentials are great – in fact, they’re the number one thing you should look for – but a positive reputation can be even more valuable. See how your community feels about the jeweler you’re hoping to work with. Check in with people you know who have used the jeweler, scour online reviews, and ask all the questions you need answered before deciding to work with a jeweler in your area.
Last Minute Tips and Tricks for Working with Local Jewelers
If you follow along with the advice I’ve given you above, you’re on a pretty good track to finding a quality jeweler who you can trust to help you find what you’re looking for. I do have a few last-minute tips and tricks that can help you even more on your hunt for a quality jeweler
First, educate yourself on the basics in diamonds. Learn the 4Cs, what they mean, and how to find them. Compare diamonds that you’re looking at to other diamonds, and have your jeweler point out differences in clarity grades and color grades so you can visually understand the differences before purchasing.
I also recommend asking your jeweler to show you how to loupe the diamond so you’re able to see with your own eyes the presence or absence of inclusions. Don’t be afraid to ask if the diamond your jeweler if the diamond you’re looking at is treated or if the clarity has been enhanced. Most importantly, don’t take your jewelers word as gold. When it comes to purchasing gems, I have one steadfast rule, always get a second opinion from a third-party.
Final Thoughts on Seeking Out a Jeweler
Working with a jeweler you can trust is the most important factor in your hunt for a professional. With the above advice, you should be well-versed on how to tell if your jeweler has the integrity, passion, personality, education, and credentials that you need. Always remember to do your research, partner with someone you trust, and don’t be afraid to request third-party credentials.