Choosing Local Diamond Experts
When it comes to your engagement ring, you want to feel confident that you’re buying the best quality possible. And while you can find a lot of information about diamonds on the internet, there are some things that only an experienced jeweler will know. Fortunately, there are plenty of local experts you can trust to help you make the best decision for your love.
The most reputable dealers will have certificates from a grading lab such as the Gemological Institute of America. This is important because it lets you know that the diamond you’re considering has been carefully evaluated and accurately rated by professionals. GIA is considered the gold standard in the industry.
Many retailers will try to sell you a more expensive diamond than what is listed on the grading report. This is a common sales tactic, and it can be hard to spot. The best way to avoid being ripped off is to go with a jeweler that is honest and transparent.
King’s Jewelry has been family owned since 1914 and is a leader in value and service. They offer a wide selection of fine diamonds and other gemstones at their locations in Wheeling, Hermitage, New Castle, Cranberry Twp and St. Clairsville. They are also active in their communities and donate to a variety of charities in each location.
A reputable jeweler http://theinscribermag.com/the-essence-of-bridal-jewelry-and-engagement-rings will also have a wide selection of diamond styles and designs, including solitaire rings, pave settings, and halo designs. They will also be able to tell you the history of the diamond you’re buying, and they’ll be able to explain the meaning behind the design choices that went into it.
Another thing to look for is whether the store offers customization services. Some will be able to set your diamond in the band or setting of your choice for free, which can make the entire process easier and more enjoyable. They will also be able to help you pick out the perfect band or setting for your partner if you aren’t sure what they’d like.
Lastly, it’s important to choose a jewelry shop that is a member of the Responsible Jewelry Council, or RJC. The RJC sends third-party auditors to inspect its members’ supply chains. They ensure that they are not selling conflict diamonds, or sourced from mines where human rights abuses are prevalent.
The 4 Cs are a great starting point, but it takes years of experience to become a gemologist and be able to truly evaluate the four diamond characteristics. Plus, each diamond was cut from a unique piece of rough, so it has its own characteristics that can’t be fully determined by numbers and letters alone.
While it’s true that mining can be a destructive process, many of the people that depend on natural diamonds for economic survival and cultural survival rely on these jobs to provide food, education, healthcare, and even shelter for their families. That’s why it’s so important to buy ethically sourced and certified diamonds from an independent jeweler.