Considering buying a piece of jewellery for yourself or a loved one?
Whether it’s an engagement ring, a wedding band, or a special gift, shopping for jewellery can often be a significant investment. But with so many options and variables to consider, it can also be overwhelming to know where to start.
In this article, we’ll share the five most important questions to ask before buying your next piece of jewellery. From understanding the quality of the materials used, to learning about the inspiration behind the design, we’ll guide you through the essential questions to ask any jeweller.
So, let’s get started!
1. Is the jewellery genuine?
Authenticity is crucial, especially for precious metals and gemstones, so when buying jewellery, always ask if the materials used are the ‘real deal’.
Once you’re sure that the jewellery is indeed genuine, also ask about the quality of the materials used, such as the type of metal, the grade of the gemstones, as well as any other details that can affect the durability and value of the piece. Remember, higher quality materials will last longer, look better, and hold their value over time.
Finally, look for hallmarks that indicate the authenticity of the metal used, such as a 925 stamp for sterling silver or a 750 stamp for 18k (karat) gold.
2. Is the jewellery ethically sourced?
Unfortunately, the international jewellery industry has a long history of unethical sourcing practices, such as using conflict diamonds or exploiting workers in mines.
When shopping for jewellery, look for jewellers that are committed to ethical and sustainable practices and who can provide certifications or proof of responsible sourcing for the materials used in the piece.
3. What’s the warranty and return policy?
Before buying jewellery, it’s always important to know about the warranty and return policy.
If something happens with the piece, or if you change your mind, it’s best to know if you have the option to return or exchange it. Also make sure to ask the jeweller if there’s a guarantee provided with the design, or if you can bring the piece back to the shop after a year for professional cleaning and inspection.
4. How do I care for the jewellery piece?
Proper care and maintenance are essential for keeping your jewellery in its best condition.
When buying jewellery, ask your jeweller about the recommended care and maintenance practices. For example, some pieces may require special cleaning or storage to prevent damage. By following their advice, right down to caring for the specific metal or individual gemstone, you can better ensure that your jewellery will continue to look beautiful for years to come.
5. Can the jewellery be resized or repaired if needed?
Before buying jewellery, also remember to ask if the piece can be potentially resized or repaired in future.
That’s because it’s common for jewellery pieces to require alterations or repairs over time due to things like daily wear and tear, changes in ring sizes, or accidental damage. Keep in mind though, that not all jewellery can be resized or repaired, especially if the design is intricate or the materials are fragile.
Need help from the professionals?
At Martin Gear Jewellers, with more than a quarter of a century’s experience in the industry, we know how important it is to make informed decisions when buying jewellery.
That’s why we’re committed to always providing our customers with high-quality, expertly crafted pieces, backed by exceptional customer service.
To learn more, simply drop into our store on 5 Mary St, Dublin 1, or alternatively, give us a call on (01) 872 8726.
