Before laying down your 'plastic' to buy a string of pearls or bracelet or akoya pearl, read all you can about it so you are a well education purchaser. Match up the quality, customer service and price of competing offers. 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. 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 akoya pearl, 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. Determine what professional trade groups your jeweler belongs and what the requirements are of membership. The BBB is an excellent source of investigation on a business. You will want to deal with a store that has a well trained staff to include gemological 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 akoya pearl. Be sure to get all the particulars related to your purchase in writing as you do not want to have any disputes without evidence of what you believe was represented. Determine where they are geographically and call to speak with a person to confirm details or get clarification. That having been said, getting everything represented in writing is very important. Finally, you and/or your loved one should enjoy and cherish that new jewelry or akoya pearl purchase.