Before laying down your 'plastic' to buy a string of pearls or bracelet or jewelry, read all you can about it so you are a well education purchaser. Be sure that you comparison shop for quality, price and customer service. b. Get all the details about the online or store return policy and their refund policy. d. You will want a warranty with your purchase so inquire and understand what is offered. Ask for a gemological report for any purchase related to precious gems and a sales receipt.

Finding a jeweler that you can trust is of utmost importance. Regardless of whether you are buying a pendant, watch, necklace or jewelry. Get to the bottom of the store's reputation by asking those that have purchased from the store. We suggest that you look into the store's standing in your town. Determine what professional trade groups your jeweler belongs and what the requirements are of membership. The Better Business Bureau in your area is a resource you should use when evaluating a prospective jeweler. Determine if the store's sale people have any gemological and appraisal education.

If you do buy that ring, bracelet, watch or jewelry online, before you do so, see if the site posts a Better Business Bureau Reliability seal on their site. Always get the particulars related to your purchase documented in case there is a dispute. A conversation with a sales person from the online store as you want to 'get personal' as if you had visited a 'bricks and mortar' store. In addition to the phone conversation, get everything in writing. Closing remark - your recipient of jewelry is one lucky person!