Before laying down your 'plastic' to buy a string of pearls or bracelet or boulder opal pendant, read all you can about it so you are a well education purchaser. Compare price, service and quality. d. Be sure you understand and can live with the store (or websites) exchange and return policies. d. You will want a warranty with your purchase so inquire and understand what is offered. Always get everything you relied upon related to the purchase in writing (e.g. sales receipt; gemological report; purchase details).

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 boulder opal pendant. Check out the store's reputation in your area. You want to find out if the jeweler is a member of any industry organizations and what requirements are necessary to be a member. The Better Business Bureau in your area is a resource you should use when evaluating a prospective jeweler. Look for a jeweler with a gemological and appraisal education and certificate.

When buying diamonds, pearls, rubies or boulder opal pendant on the Internet, look for a BBB Reliability seal to indicate membership in the BBB. Get all the product details in writing (for example by email) including refund policy. Call the online store and get confirmation as to the particulars of the purchase. In addition to the phone conversation, get everything in writing. With all that accomplished, wear that jewelry or boulder opal pendant as often as possible.