Before laying down your 'plastic' to buy a string of pearls or bracelet or 18k gold rings, read all you can about it so you are a well education purchaser. Match up the quality, customer service and price of competing offers. c. Inquire about how you would get a refund or return the item if dissatisfied. c. Ask about the seller's guarantee and/or warranty on the item being bought. 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 18k gold rings, understand the stores reputation by checking with others that have made purchases including friends or relatives. A store's 'standing' in your community is an important factor to consider prior to making a purchase. Professional trade organizations set 'standards'. Determine if your jeweler is a member of any such organizations. Get a BBB report on your jewelry store prior to making any purchase. Determine if the store's sale people have any gemological and appraisal education.

The BBB Reliability seal is a good indicator of the online store's compliance with good business practices and a seal you should look for when buying diamonds, watches, pearls or 18k gold rings. Document the details related to your purchase for future use, if necessary. Pick up the phone and speak with a representative of the web based site to reconfirm purchase details. Further to the telephone call, be sure that the purchase is well documented including all representations. Closing remark - your recipient of 18k gold rings is one lucky person!