Before laying down your 'plastic' to buy a string of pearls or bracelet or cheap pocket watch, 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. c. Ask about the seller's guarantee and/or warranty on the item being bought. Ask for a gemological report for any purchase related to precious gems and a sales receipt.

The saying goes 'if you don't know your jewels, know your jeweler'. Well, checking on the reputation of the sale that you making is of paramount importance when buying diamonds, pearls, watches or cheap pocket watch. A store's 'standing' in your community is an important factor to consider prior to making a purchase. See if they belong to any trade organizations which usually require strict adherence to good business practices before accepting a store for membership. Obtain as much information as you can about the store you are entertaining using from the Better Business Bureau. Look for a jeweler with a gemological and appraisal education and certificate.

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 cheap pocket watch. 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. Further to the telephone call, be sure that the purchase is well documented including all representations. With all that accomplished, wear that jewelry or cheap pocket watch as often as possible.