Although the best jewelry is going to come at a high purchase price, people in the know can often get significant deals on diamond rings, precious gems, or a variety of accessories. Of course, the trick involves understanding the different types of jewelry, but it also involves being a savvy gem shopper. Finally, getting deep discounts on premium jewelry involves such things as simply being informed.
When buying diamond jewelry, for instance, you should understand that all diamonds range according to such things as size and purity. Specifically, these are called the four Cs of diamond buying, and the factors include the following.
As you probably understand, larger diamonds cost more, but you might not be aware that a diamond that is slightly less than a full carat might cost considerably less than one that is a full carat. However, a diamond that is not quite a full carat will be visually the same. Consequently, you can get the same overall effect by buying something just a little smaller. After all, you will not be able to really tell the difference between a ring that is .83 carats and one that is 1.01 carats. However, you will notice the savings.
Similarly, you can save money by buying a diamond that has more inclusions or color, or you can purchase one with slightly imprecise cuts.
When it comes to cuts, you can also save money by purchasing different styles. For instance, a princess cut might be more expensive than a baguette, and a solitaire will often be more expensive than an oval or cushion cut.
Jewelers are often able to offer a wide range of discounts if they want to move inventory. Consequently, you should offer what you want to pay and stick to your purchase price. If one jeweler cannot sell his or her jewelry at a discount, another might be able to.
Another way to achieve deep savings is by seeking out a price match. One jeweler who wants your business and has jewelry comparable to another store's selection might beat the competition's best price by up to 15 percent.
Of course, the trick is to never buy anything the moment you see something you like. Instead, you should pique a jeweler's hopes and dreams and then leave. If you come back a few times, you will have a much better chance of getting a discount.
Buying right before Christmas or any time before February 14th is a rookie error that can cost you hundreds of dollars that can otherwise stay in your pocket. Instead of buying during peak seasons, wait until a week after the rush and determine which stores are offering the best deals on excess inventory.
In fact, the best time to purchase jewelry is in early January and again in late February. Often, you can find good deals in July.
Buying what is trendy can end up costing you a lot of money because everyone else who wants a particular style of necklace will drive up the price due to high demand. Instead of buying what the media is popularizing, purchase what you think looks good on you. Doing so will often lead you to buy pieces that are not so trendy and not so expensive.
Simply put, every jeweler wants to move high volumes of their gems and will offer a set at a much better price than what you will find for individual rings, necklaces, or earrings. If your budget allows you to buy a set, you could end up saving hundreds of dollars over buying each piece individually across a period of months.
When it comes to gold, the purity is measured in karats. The cheapest gold is 10K, and the most expensive is 24K. Purity level is important for resale value, but it is not important if you want a particular piece at a discount. If you find a ring that is offered in both 18K and in 10K, you can save hundreds of dollars by going with the ring with less purity.
Like gold, silver comes in purity levels that range from approximately 90 percent pure silver all the way to purity levels of 99.99 percent. Sterling silver, for instance, has a standard purity of 92.5 percent while fine silver ranks in at 99.9 percent pure silver.
Any time you buy new jewelry, you will pay a higher amount. However, if you buy used jewelry, you can save a lot of money. Although there is a stigma against buying used jewelry, there is no stigma against buying used houses, cars, or anything else. Consequently, this stigma is of no real concern because once you buy something, it is yours. You can find used jewelry at pawn shops, discount jewelers, or online. Additionally, you can find great deals at consignment shops.
A ring with gems encrusted along the band can cost thousands more than one that is topped with a lone gemstone. If you want the best look at the best price, consider a plain band or even an engraved band with no stones.
Perhaps the best way to obtain the best deal on a piece of jewelry or even a set is to buy local and small. This means that you should not shop from national retailers as they will have a hefty overhead factored into every price tag. Instead, you can save a lot of cash or credit by supporting jewelers who operate online shops or craft booths. Also, buying from a local person is also the best way to purchase one-of-a-kind sets at a great price.
Often, if you purchase a ring that is tarnished, you can save a lot of money because once a piece of jewelry has been polished and restored, it will have much greater curb appeal, as it were. If you can find jewelry in rough shape, you can save money and later have it restored.
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for professional consultation or advice related to your health or finances. No reference to an identifiable individual or company is intended as an endorsement thereof. Some or all of this article may have been generated using artificial intelligence, and it may contain certain inaccuracies or unreliable information. Readers should not rely on this article for information and should consult with professionals for personal advice.