The reputation and reliability of your
wedding jeweler is key. Often a private independent jeweler can offer
you wonderful quality and unique design at a far more reasonable price.
But you must be very thorough in your investigation of this person’s
ability, knowledge and honesty. Only a recommendation from someone you
know you can trust should lead you to select an independent jeweler.
Look for one who is a certified gemologist with a certificate from the
Gemological Institute of America, the leading American authority on
diamonds.
You can also shop jewelry stores that
have been in business for many years and are recommended by family,
friends and your other vendors. Either an independent individual or
the trained staff of a store can help you make a sound choice. They
will explain differences in carat weight, clarity, color and cut, often
known as the "four C’s". You should also obtain an appraisal
certifying the quality for insurance purposes.
Shop around and compare prices at several
jewelers. Look for markings of trademark and content or quality on the
shank of the ring. Reputable jewelers will sell quality rings only.
Look for the markings. A mark of "14k" means 14-karat gold.
This is 58.3 percent gold content. An "18k" means 18-karat
gold. This is 75 percent gold. Trademarks vary in size and shape. A
ring manufacturer’s marking tells you that it stands behind its
product. Make sure that any ring you buy has both a trademark and a
contents marking on it.
Once you have purchased a ring call your
insurance company and submit the ring appraisal for a policy to cover
it. Get another appraisal from an independent jeweler to support the
replacement valuation.
