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. Make sure you check out not only the price of the item relative to the quality but also the customer service you will receive after the purchase. a. Ask about the store (or online) refund and return policy. a. Carefully read all warranties and guarantees and ask questions if the terms are unclear. Be sure to get, in writing, on the sales receipt, any information you relied on when making your purchase, such as the gem's weight or size. Some jewelers will supply a grading report from a gemological laboratory.

Investigate the 'store' from whom you are making a purchase. Whether it's a brooch, pendant, necklace or jewelry, understand the stores reputation by checking with others that have made purchases including friends or relatives. Be sure the store has a long-standing, solid reputation in the community. Professional trade organizations set 'standards'. Determine if your jeweler is a member of any such organizations. Obtain a report on the business from the Better Business Bureau. You will want to deal with a store that has a well trained staff to include gemological 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. Prior to purchasing, get all details about your purchase in writing. Call the online store and get confirmation as to the particulars of the purchase. In addition, be sure that you document all conversation and details of the transaction. Last thought - enjoy your beautiful jewelry purchase.