Before laying down your 'plastic' to buy a string of pearls or bracelet or cheap name brand watch, 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. a. Ask about the store (or online) refund and return policy. b. Review any guarantees or warranties that come with the purchase. Obtain a written sales receipt and, in writing, any information you relied upon in your purchase.

Investigate the 'store' from whom you are making a purchase. Whether it's a brooch, pendant, necklace or cheap name brand watch, understand the stores reputation by checking with others that have made purchases including friends or relatives. A good indicator of the store's reliability is if they are well respected in your city. You want to find out if the jeweler is a member of any industry organizations and what requirements are necessary to be a member. Obtain as much information as you can about the store you are entertaining using from the Better Business Bureau. Dealing with knowledgeable staff is a must. See if they have a gemological background.

When buying diamonds, pearls, rubies or cheap name brand watch on the Internet, look for a BBB Reliability seal to indicate membership in the BBB. Document the details related to your purchase for future use, if necessary. 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. Having written that, paperwork trail is extremely important when making an online jewelry purchase. Lastly, wear that jewelry or cheap name brand watch often and enjoy it.