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How do I buy jewellery wisely? |
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Whether it is for yourself or a gift for a loved one, buying jewellery represents a happy occasion. Here are a few tips to assist you in making an informed decision:
- When comparing prices, be sure you are comparing merchandise of similar quality.
- View deep discounts and “wholesale prices” with caution. If it sounds too good to be true, it probably is. Moreover, one store’s “50% off” could turn out to be the same as another’s regular price.
- To avoid any misunderstanding later on, it is a good idea to check store policies on refunds and exchanges before purchase.
- Following your purchase, treat your jewellery with care. You should not attempt to repair or otherwise tamper with your jewellery. Instead, visit your jeweller periodically to have it checked and it will usually get a professional “shine up” too.
- If you don’t know your jewellery, know your jeweller. Deal with a reputable professional who is a member of the Canadian Jewellers Association (CJA).
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How do I select my jeweller? |
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To see a selection of quality coloured gemstones and jewellery, visit a knowledgeable, ethical jeweller who can guide you to a wise purchase. A CJA member is an excellent choice. You will find a professional jeweller who will be pleased to show you a variety of coloured gemstones and jewellery to suit your complexion, wardrobe and budget.
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What determines the price of diamonds? |
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You may already be familiar with the term “The Four C’s”, but few jewellery buyers understand the magnitude of the four most important attributes of a diamond. Carat weight, colour, clarity and cut are the characteristics that alone determine the price and quality of a diamond.
Carat: The carat weight measures the mass of a diamond. One carat is defined as exactly 200 milligrams (about 0.007 ounce). The value of a diamond increases exponentially in relation to carat weight, since larger diamonds are both rare and more desirable for gemstones.
Colour: Diamonds are graded for colour on a scale of “D” or colourless, to “Z” or dark yellow. A chemically pure and structurally perfect diamond is completely transparent with no hue or colour. Almost no gem-sized natural diamonds are absolutely perfect. The colour of the diamond may be affected by chemical impurities and structural defects in the crystal lattice. The hue and intensity of a diamond’s colouration can enhance or detract from its value.
Clarity: Flaws inside a diamond are commonly referred to as inclusions. These imperfections may be crystals of a foreign material, another diamond crystal or structural imperfections (tiny cracks that can appear whitish or cloudy). The number, size, colour, relative location, orientation and visibility of the inclusions can all influence the clarity of a diamond.
Cut: The cut of a diamond describes the manner in which a diamond has been shaped and polished from its beginning form as a rough stone to its final gem proportions. The cut describes both the shape a diamond is formed into as well as the quality of workmanship. Round or brilliant is a favourite among engagement rings. Emerald cut is rectangular in shape with facets polished diagonally across the corners. Marquise or pointed boat shape is long and narrow and tends to slim the finger. Pear shape is popular in rings as well as pendants. An adaptation of the brilliant shape, oval tends to appear larger than a brilliant of the same carat weight. |
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How much should I spend on a diamond engagement ring? |
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Most people base their decision on their monthly salary. A typical rule of thumb is to purchase a ring that equals your two-month salary. Above all, don’t be influenced to spend more than you can afford. |
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How can I ensure I’m getting the best value for the money? |
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Before purchasing jewellery it is important to remember that gold, diamonds and gemstones are rare and expensive to mine. Firm industry guidelines ensure that diamonds, gemstones and gold are valued according to current market prices. Sales tax, market forces, craftsmanship, grading, quality and weight of jewellery are all taken into account when determining a value.
Visit a knowledgeable, ethical jeweller who can assist you in making a wise purchase. Always ask a jeweller for detailed written quotes and shop around before making a final decision. A CJA member is an excellent choice. |
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How do I know that the diamond I purchase is not a “blood diamond” and is conflict free? |
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The diamond industry, governments, the United Nations and non-governmental organizations adopted the Kimberley Process Certification System (November 2002) to stem the trade in conflict diamonds. Canada is a signatory to the process. The system was put in place to assure only legitimately sourced diamonds are traded. Today over 99% of the world’s diamonds supply is certified to be from sources that are free from conflict. |
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If I insure my jewellery, what should I expect from my CJA jeweller? |
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A qualified registered valuer should provide you with a written detailed valuation or receipt for most jewellery purchased. In the event of loss or theft, this record will assist in compiling an inventory of your jewellery. |
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Why jewellery insurance? |
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Your favorite pieces of jewellery are more than valued possessions. They’re reflections of who you are and they symbolize your connection to the ones you love. Choosing the right jewellery insurance gives you the peace of mind that if your ring becomes lost, stolen or damaged, you will be able to work with your preferred jeweller to repair or replace your ring with one of the same kind and quality as the original and restore the cherished memories the item represented. Look for comprehensive jewellery protection that goes beyond homeowners insurance to provide coverage against loss, theft, damage and mysterious disappearance. |
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Does diamond switching and misleading advertising occur? |
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This does not happen among highly trained professionals who have spent years studying their trade. Reputable jewellers have formal qualifications as gemmologists, appraisers and goldsmiths and bring honesty and integrity to their craft. |
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How often should I have my jewellery appraised? |
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It is recommended that you have your jewellery reappraised every two to three years. Jewellery values may increase over the years and reappraisal ensures you receive the current replacement value. |
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What is the best way to clean my jewellery? |
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Your jewellery should be professionally cleaned and polished at least once a year. At this time your CJA jeweller can check the settings for wear and tear. |
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What about consumer protection? |
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The Jewellers Vigilance Canada Inc. (JVC) is a non-profit association to advance ethical practices in full partnership with the RCMP. If you encounter a problem with a Canadian jeweller, please contact Jewellers Vigilance Canada Inc. at:
27 Queen Street East, Suite 600
Toronto, ON
M5C 2M6
Toll Free: 1-800-636-9536
Toronto: 416-368-4840
Fax: 416- 368-5552
Email: info@jewellersvigilance.ca
www.jewellersvigilance.ca
www.jvc-crimedata.com |
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What about consumer assistance? |
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The CJA is more than happy to assist you. We are available toll free at 1-800-580-0942 or 416-368-7616. Feel free to email us or send a fax to 416-368-1986. Alternatively, you can visit your nearest CJA member. Unsure… simply look for the CJA: A Sign of Trust logo or ask if they are members. |
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