Shopping for jewellery is no longer simple as it used to be. The digital era has transformed the way we shop. We are now growing accustomed to finding anything and everything online. Whether it’s shopping for apparel, electronics, or gemstone rings, the number of choices available is insane.
The Internet is a godsend for shopping lovers who are aware of all the options available to them. However, finding the ideal picks may get overwhelming at times. There’s so much variety and information out there for buyers to choose from while jewellery shopping. As a result, shoppers may get confused and end up purchasing something they’ve not been looking for.
Shopping from a local jeweller has continued to be a convenient way of buying jewellery that assures quality pieces at genuine prices. However, not many people have the time and willingness to hop to local jewellery stores to sample out their latest collections. Instead, what people can do is browse through an online jewellery store to take a look at recent collections right from the comfort of their houses.
What to look for while buying gemstones?
Gemstones are alluring and make for an ideal jewellery piece. They are naturally-occurring stones available in a multitude of colours, properties, shapes, and sizes. When incorporated into metals like gold and silver, these gemstones make fashionable jewellery that oozes elegance in every aspect.
Characteristics and pricing of gemstone rings and other jewellery vary significantly. Although they might look alike, factors like clarity, cut, weight, etc. distinguishes them from one another. Also, the huge popularity of gemstones has led to many deceitful jewellers in the market who sell fake gemstones to ignorant buyers who have limited or no knowledge about gemstones.
Since these gemstones are quite expensive, paying for poor-quality stones is the last thing one would want to do. Despite your local jeweller is trustworthy and credible, you shouldn’t trust them blindly. Knowing the basics of gemstones and the things to look for can help you make a valuable purchase. The following listed are key things to keep in mind while buying gemstones:
- Know what you’re looking for
While out shopping for jewellery, the variety is simply breathtaking. It’s a treat for shoppers; however, it can also create a great deal of confusion and often lead to making wrong purchasing decisions. Therefore, it’s always best to know what you’re looking for and keep that in mind while browsing through the multiple options. For instance, if you intend to buy gemstone rings, you should stick to that category and inquire in detail.
- Consider the Cut, clarity, color & carat
Especially for diamonds, the cut, clarity, color, and carat should be prime considerations as they determine the rarity and value of the pieces. Two pieces that may look alike to our naked eyes may have different weights, colors, and shine that is assessed by experts. Although there’s no one right piece for all, knowing factors like the cut, clarity, color, and carat of these gemstones can help pay wisely for the jewellery.
- Ask for standard certifications
Since the characteristics of gemstones are mostly studied by gemologists and grading experts, it is important to shop for jewellery that comes with standard certifications such as GIA, AGS, EGL certification, etc. Gemstone rings and other jewellery value is justified by the grading certifications issued by reputed entities like the Gemological Institute of America that help in verifying the unique characteristics and scientific details of the stone.
- Don’t rush, browse through the available options
Jewellery buying is nowhere close to regular shopping for clothes, electronics, and other items. Hence, there’s no point rushing or buying the first piece that’s presented to you. This is where shopping for jewellery online appears more convenient than from a local jeweller. You can browse through multiple websites and acquaint yourself with the latest collections before finalizing the perfect jewellery.
- Go through the store policies
Needless to say, it is important to go through the jeweller’s store policies before making a purchase. Since jewellery buying is a huge investment, you wouldn’t want to settle dissatisfied. Store policies include payment and credit options, jewellery customization, return policy, etc. It is quite possible that the final jewellery piece doesn’t turn out to be what you expected. In such cases, knowing the store policies will help you make a hassle-free exchange.
Final Note
There’s no definitive guide to buying gemstone rings and similar jewellery pieces. Be it individual preferences or the wide range of available options, shopping for gemstone jewellery is different for all. However, what’s important is to be mindful of all the basic factors that should be considered while making a purchase. Dealing with credible jewellers, inquiring about the gemstone’s quality & characteristics, ensuring standard certifications for the gemstone, etc. are some essentials that will ensure a worthy purchase.
