Valentine’s Day is a day of giving to those we love. For many, it’s a day for proposals: Valentine’s Day is one of the most popular days of the year for “popping the question.” And what better way to propose than with a beautiful diamond solitaire engagement ring?
With so many new diamond cuts and brands to choose from, however, those in the market for an engagement diamond might find themselves reeling. The Internet is filled with information about the best ways to make a diamond purchase, and that’s the first place many start. But can an online source be better than a trusted local jeweler when it comes to making the final purchase? What are the distinct differences between a so-so diamond and one that’s truly out-of-this-world? What constitutes a fair deal? And of course, how do you select a jeweler you can trust and buy from with confidence?
Buying a diamond on-line may appear to be painless. But when it’s time to make the purchase, it can be difficult to buy a diamond that’s never been seen from to an unknown source. “The one-on-one relationship between an experienced retail jeweler and his or her customer is the one that usually matters most when the purchase of an important diamond is made,” says Richard Swetz, chairman of the Independent Jewelers Organization, a consortium and buying group of retail jewelers whose membership reaches across the United States.
Here are some tips from the IJO on finding a jeweler and buying a diamond—on Valentine’s Day or any day—that should help navigate this sometimes difficult terrain:
Familiarize yourself with the basics: The four-Cs—cut, color, clarity and carat weight—describe the proportion of a diamond as well as other important physical characteristics which will effect its price. Understanding the basics will help you to understand the diamond’s price.
Learn how to read a diamond grading report: All reputable jewelers sell diamonds with grading reports or certificates, which provide a third-party evaluation of a diamond and heavily impact its
price. All Forever10 diamonds display 10 hearts and 10 arrows making it the world’s most brilliant diamond. The Forever10 is available exclusively from IJO Master Jewelers and comes
with grading reports from either the Gemological Institute of America or the American Gem Society Laboratories, two of the leading U.S. diamond gem labs. The grades include measurements of the stone, carat weight, color, clarity, finish, polish, symmetry and fluorescence. Additional comments may also be included as well as the diamond’s plot or graphical representation.
Decide what you can spend—and where you want to put your money: A diamond engagement ring is a major investment and buying the best diamond you can afford is always good advice. With the expanding market for designer engagement ring settings, however, you should make an early decision about where your budgeted money will be spent: Would you rather spend more for a better diamond in a simpler setting or opt for a designer setting with a smaller stone?
Do business with a jeweler you can trust: For an expert jeweler you can buy from with confidence, visit your local Master IJO Jeweler. To find the store nearest you, visit www.masterjeweler.com for a list of member retailers by zip code.
Established in 1972, the Independent Jewelers Organization (IJO) is the largest jewelry buying group in the world, consisting of over 1,150 designers, manufacturers and retailers. When IJO’s purple and white logo is displayed, consumers are assured they are receiving quality jewelry from a full-service and knowledgeable jeweler they can trust, and meets IJO’s strict standards. To learn more about the IJO and the Forever10 Diamond, visit www.masterjeweler.com.
Public Relations Contact: Rosica Strategic Public Relations