Before laying down your 'plastic' to buy a string of pearls or bracelet or 18k gold cross, read all you can about it so you are a well education purchaser. Shop all aspects related to your purchase: the price; the quality and the service you get after the purchase. f. Specifically inquire about the return and refund policies. e. Any purchase you make you will want to be sure comes with a warranty and/or guarantee - be sure you understand its terms. 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.

We can't think of another purchase category beyond jewelry where the reputation and honesty of the seller is more important. Do all you can to investigate the business practices of the jeweler whether you are buying precious stones, gold, platinum or 18k gold cross. We suggest that you look into the store's standing in your town. Find out what organizations the jeweler belongs to and their membership requirements. 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.

Whether you want to purchase a watch, earrings, string of pearls or 18k gold cross online, look for the Better Business Bureau Reliability Seal. Get all the product details in writing (for example by email) including refund policy. 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. Lastly, wear that jewelry or 18k gold cross often and enjoy it.