If you are in the market for an engagement ring, you must consider your budget, the quality of the diamond, and the style that best suits your partner. It helps to consult someone who understands jewelry, so a jeweler can be an asset when you want to get the perfect ring. Here are frequently asked questions (FAQs) about jewelers you might want to know when buying a diamond:
What Does a Jeweler Do?
A jeweler is a skilled professional specializing in crafting, designing, repairing, and selling jewelry. Most jewelry stores hire professionals who specialize in different aspects of the jewelry-making process. You may encounter the following experts at a jewelry shop:
Gemologist
A gemologist is an expert trained to study and evaluate gemstones based on their properties, quality, and value. Gemologists collaborate with jewelry designers to provide expert gemstone selection and valuation recommendations. Gemologists can differentiate between natural and lab-grown diamonds, which makes them an asset when authenticating diamonds.
Designers
Jewelry designers create unique jewelry designs based on customers’ requests. Some jewelry stores may not have an in-house designer. The store owner can direct you to independent designers they work with when you want a custom ring.
Bench Jeweler
A bench jeweler offers services like jewelry cleaning, repair, and resizing. Bench jewelers also take special requests like engraving and enameling rings. These professionals collaborate with jewelry designers to create molds for custom rings, cut stones, and set stones on bands.
How Do I Choose the Right Jeweler?
Selecting the right jeweler makes finding the engagement ring you envisioned easier. Consider the following factors when evaluating jewelry stores:
Reputation
Get referrals from friends and family on the best engagement ring stores to visit in your area. Before visiting a jewelry store, research its reputation by reading online reviews. A reputable jewelry store has positive feedback on its pages and a history of satisfied customers.
Expertise
Choose a jeweler specializing in the type of jewelry you want. For instance, if you want a diamond ring, it is best to shop in a store that specializes in diamonds to access multiple options. A jeweler who has been in business for many years has the expertise to guide you when choosing jewelry.
Diamond Certification
When buying a diamond ring, it helps to get one from a jeweler who offers a diamond certificate alongside their rings. Jewelry certification verifies the quality and value of your purchase. A diamond certificate gives your jeweler credibility since you know the stone’s authenticity on your ring.
Customization Options
If you have a custom design in mind, choose a jeweler who provides customization options at their store. Ask a jeweler to show you pictures of their custom-made jewelry to determine if you like their work’s quality. Some jewelry stores create 3-D models of custom projects for a customer’s approval before proceeding with a custom design.
Do Jewelers Offer Aftercare Services?
Some jewelry stores offer maintenance services like cleaning free of charge to keep your diamond sparkling. Most jewelers also repair defective parts on their jewelry for free. If your partner decides to remount any stones on their ring onto another jewelry piece, your jeweler may remount the gem at a price.
What Should I Expect When I Visit a Jewelry Store?
A jeweler’s job is to help you find the perfect piece based on your budget and preferences. When you walk into a jewelry store, the jeweler may ask you some questions to help you choose a suitable piece. They may ask about the occasion for the jewelry, your budget, and your preferred metal and gemstone. The jeweler shows you some options based on your preferences.
Once you pick a jewelry piece, the jeweler provides information on the quality of the piece and breaks down its pricing. Your jeweler then discusses your payment options. Once you make the purchase, you get a warranty and appraisal for insurance purposes.
Get Answers To All Your Jewelry Questions
If you are in the market for an engagement ring, it helps to have a professional guide you through the ring-buying process. Jewelers are experts and can advise you on diamond qualities and assist with appraisals. Reach out to a professional jeweler for all your jewelry questions.