VI. Where To Buy Your Jewelry
A. Catalogs and TV Shopping Channels
Some people like to buy things out of catalogs, based on written descriptions
and pictures. Others like to be "part of the action" and order the jewelry they
see advertised on the shopping channels. However, a large percentage of jewelry
purchased "by remote control" gets returned for a refund. Many people are
disappointed when their merchandise arrives and doesn't live up to their
expectations. They're then aggravated by the hassles of having to repackage and
reship the goods back to the seller, paying sometimes outrageous "shipping and
handling" charges, plus the return postage.
B. The Internet
Yes, these days, you can buy jewelry with your computer. Some people love the
fact that they can "surf the web" and find jewelry for sale. Unfortunately, just
about anybody who owns a computer can throw up a web site and start selling
jewelry. Many of these "virtual stores" don't even list a physical address. Where
do you go, or who do you see if you have a problem, or if the merchandise is
not as described? The Internet is a great place to gain information and ideas,
but every diamond is unique. Diamonds which appear similar on paper may
look dramatically different in person. It's nice to see exactly what
you're buying and be comfortable with your purchase, instead of having to
pay in advance before seeing even one diamond.
C. Mass Merchandisers
The big box stores, the Wal-Marts, K-Marts, Sam's Clubs, even Sears, all sell
jewelry these days. Prices are low, but, of course, you can't expect much in
the way of knowledgeable assistance from the sales clerks. And, at best, you'll
be selecting from a limited offering of "best sellers" -- that's the nature of a
"mass merchandiser." Many people like to feel they're choosing a piece of jewelry
that's a unique reflection of themselves, and don't like the idea that 200,000
other people are wearing the exact same thing they are.
D. Your Local Independent Jeweler
There are many jewelry establishments in our area, many of whom have a fine
reputation. Before you select a jeweler, may we suggest you investigate the
following:
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Is the store a member of the American Gem Society. If not, why not?
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Does the seller hold diplomas from the Gemological Institute of America
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Are the owner(s) in the store on a daily basis? (Many local stores have
managers, but the owner lives in another community or another state).
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Is the store and its owners active within the community?
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Are they active and recognized within the jewelry industry?
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Do they have custom design capabilities, in the store?
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What about guarantees and return policies?
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Do they guarantee the diamond quality in writing?
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To what standards?
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What about a money-back guarantee of satisfaction?
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Do they offer in-store repair services by a qualified technician?
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What about trade-in policies, in case I decide to upgrade my purchase later?
May we humbly request that you consider shopping for your jewelry purchase at
our store? We welcome the opportunity to help you find that "just
right" piece of jewelry. Whether it's an indulgence for yourself or a
gift that's guaranteed to take their breath away, we'll make sure you'll find
exactly what you want.
At Hight & Randall, Personal Jeweler, you'll find a warm and friendly
welcome, and refuge from the big mall crowds. Here's a place where you'll be
delighted by an extensive selection of exclusive designer jewelry, a place
where you'll receive the personal attention you deserve, and a place where
you're sure to find that one extraordinary piece -- a future heirloom.
Hight & Randall are members of the American Gem Society, an organization
founded in 1934, dedicated to ethics and continuing education for its members.
Through its membership process, AGS has been protecting consumers for nearly 3/4 of a century.
Hight & Randall's President, Barbara Hight-Randall, is a Rochester native,
and holds the title of Certified Gemologist Appraiser, AGS, and Graduate
Gemologist, GIA. She is in charge of southeastern Minnesota's only Accredited
Gem Laboratory. Barbara also worked for DeBeers' Diamond Promotion Service,
and served as an instructor for GIA, teaching other jewelers how to grade and
identify diamonds and colored stones.
Randy Randall has worked in the jewelry industry for more than two decades, as
an appraiser, manager, trainer, and store owner. He is always prepared to
share his knowledge and expertise with you.
We hope this consumer information guide has been helpful to you.
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