Article Detail
02 Oct
Not all jewelers are created equal. Some have larger selections, some have better prices; some have more helpful and knowledgeable staff.
If you’re very lucky you’ll find one that’s good at all those things, but it can be tough.
Know your options:
1. Big Chains – The “shopping mall” jewelers. You may know some of the names from radio ads — Jared’s, Goodman’s, etc. These focus on the most common types of jewelry — wedding and engagement rings, earrings for women, watches, and chains.
They tend to have good return policies and other customer service features. The staff may not be as knowledgeable as an independent jeweler, and in some cases be aware that you’ll be dealing with a sales clerk rather than a professional jeweler at first.
These are fine places to look for basic jewelry needs, just be sure you’re getting an experienced opinion on the quality, and don’t expect to find anything too out of the ordinary.
2. Family Or Independent Jewelers – Something of a dying breed, most major cities still have a jewelers’ neighborhood. Expect to find a smaller selection with a more eclectic selection of styles than you would at a big chain store.
These can be great places to find unusual, eye-catching pieces, and the jeweler will usually have ample knowledge and expertise. On the other hand, returns and exchanges may be more difficult, and there won’t be a fixed catalog to choose from — you’re at the mercy of the jeweler’s selection.
3. Antique & Pawn Shops – Any second-hand jewelry offers two big opportunities: the chance to score a really unusual piece, and the chance to get majorly ripped off. Exercise caution!
If you’re not a jeweler, you’re not really qualified to judge a piece based on its appearance and whatever documentation it might or might not come with. Don’t shell out serious money without a jeweler’s opinion or a really good return policy.
If you’re very lucky you’ll find one that’s good at all those things, but it can be tough.
Know your options:
1. Big Chains – The “shopping mall” jewelers. You may know some of the names from radio ads — Jared’s, Goodman’s, etc. These focus on the most common types of jewelry — wedding and engagement rings, earrings for women, watches, and chains.
They tend to have good return policies and other customer service features. The staff may not be as knowledgeable as an independent jeweler, and in some cases be aware that you’ll be dealing with a sales clerk rather than a professional jeweler at first.
These are fine places to look for basic jewelry needs, just be sure you’re getting an experienced opinion on the quality, and don’t expect to find anything too out of the ordinary.
2. Family Or Independent Jewelers – Something of a dying breed, most major cities still have a jewelers’ neighborhood. Expect to find a smaller selection with a more eclectic selection of styles than you would at a big chain store.
These can be great places to find unusual, eye-catching pieces, and the jeweler will usually have ample knowledge and expertise. On the other hand, returns and exchanges may be more difficult, and there won’t be a fixed catalog to choose from — you’re at the mercy of the jeweler’s selection.
3. Antique & Pawn Shops – Any second-hand jewelry offers two big opportunities: the chance to score a really unusual piece, and the chance to get majorly ripped off. Exercise caution!
If you’re not a jeweler, you’re not really qualified to judge a piece based on its appearance and whatever documentation it might or might not come with. Don’t shell out serious money without a jeweler’s opinion or a really good return policy.