Beware of being scammed! When you are young and in love it is easy to get swept up in the high costs of diamonds and ceremonies and dresses, but don’t pay more than you have to. There are red flags that diamond ring buyers should know, that will largely help you on your way to being happily married and satisfied with how much you paid for a diamond that is well worth the cost.
- When you see a 50% off sign, find a different jeweler. Jewelers will often have huge sales which means the diamond you are buying is worth a lot less than you are paying for it. These sales mean that one day you are paying hundreds more for a ring, while the next day the ring costs significantly less. Huge blowout sales are to be avoided so that you are receiving a quality ring while paying a cheap price, instead of the other way around. If a jeweler is able and can afford to mark down the price, it means he marked it too high in the beginning.
- If and when you hear the term “Blue White Diamond,” walk out of the store. The term is referring to a diamond ring scam that is now being regulated by the federal trade commission to stop any future scams. This blue white that a scam jeweler would refer to makes a colorless diamond look cloudy and foggy which decreases its value. So if a jeweler refers to this term telling you that the diamond is better, it is actually worse.
- Surprising hidden flaws are easily concealed from a buyer unless he asks to see the diamond apart from a setting or ring. By looking at a loose diamond, you will see any flaws that jewelers might try and keep from you.
- Before going into the jeweler, research what a good price is for the diamond you are looking for. You will want to be educated on what is a good deal versus what is not when you go in to buy your ring.
- Ask for certificates at the jewelers, which will tell you everything you need to know about the diamond you are purchasing. Though the certification and authenticity of the diamond are important, keep in mind that how the diamond looks and appeals to you is what is most important. The logistics are precautions to making sure you are getting what you have been told you are receiving.
- Follow the 4 Cs! Be informed on what you are buying. A diamond has elements to it that make it special and unique—when you know those elements you are able to make an informed decision.
- To make sure you are getting what the jeweler has promised you, have them put the weight, color, clarity and measurements in writing to prevent misunderstandings or scams.
- Find a certified and local gemologist to appraise your diamond. Make sure they are unbiased and know what they are doing, by checking through the Better Business Bureau. Getting an independent appraisal will give you peace about your purchase and it will insure that you are not scammed.
- Finally, find a great diamond dealer. Call around, do research, verify that you are buying your diamond from somewhere that has great quality, service and somewhere that wants to help you rather than scam you.
*Photo by Maveric
