Before 'pulling the trigger' on that jewelry buy, be sure you learn all you can about the bridal jewelry or whatever you are purchasing be it gold, silver, platinum or just gemstones. Be sure that you comparison shop for quality, price and customer service. f. Specifically inquire about the return and refund policies. b. Review any guarantees or warranties that come with the purchase. 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 bridal jewelry. Be sure the store has a long-standing, solid reputation in the community. Find out what organizations the jeweler belongs to and their membership requirements. Obtain a report on the business from the Better Business Bureau. Determine if the store's sale people have any gemological and appraisal education.

If you do buy that ring, bracelet, watch or bridal jewelry online, before you do so, see if the site posts a Better Business Bureau Reliability seal on their site. 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. Even though you have had a conversation, make sure that all aspects of the purchase are well documented in writing. Finally, you and/or your loved one should enjoy and cherish that new jewelry or bridal jewelry purchase.