Josh Elledge - Chief Executive Angel
With the availability of online and in-store shopping, you can purchase jewelry just about everywhere; from high-end specialty stores to standard department stores. There are so many options, price ranges, different metals, and gemstone choices, it can be overwhelming. But when buying jewelry, you never want to rush a purchase. That's why I recommend that if you intend to give a piece for Valentine's Day, you'd better start shopping now. Online and brick and mortar jewelry retailers have already started their sales and special offers.
Before you start shopping, answering some questions can help guide you through all the sparkle…
(1)Who is receiving the piece?If the piece is for a younger child, and will be worn a lot, inexpensive is my advice. Regardless of how much they love their gift, a child is more likely to lose or break a piece than an adult. If the piece is for an adult, think about what type of jewelry they would want the most, and wear often.
(2)What is your budget?Although gold or platinum is classic, if you have budget constraints, consider an alternative material. For one, sterling silver is made to hold up well, and often is just as eye-catching as more expensive metals. Likewise, you can find pieces in materials such as cobalt, which resembles white gold, but is less expensive.
Also, where you shop for your choice piece might be (at least partially) dictated by your budget. Typically you'll have an easier time finding inexpensive selections at a department store, rather than a jeweler. The reverse is also true. Online shopping will yield the widest range of prices. Be careful to not overpay for jewelry ““ or underpay, and end up wasting your money on junk.
(3)Are there metal allergies to consider?If allergies are a concern, get the help of a knowledgeable jeweler. Some people can only wear true gold, or need a different metal, to not have a reaction. You don't want to leave the health of your loved one up to chance that a metal is pure. Hypo-allergenic alternatives like titanium and cobalt might work. Other metal alternatives include sterling silver, tungsten carbide, and stainless steel.
(4)How much time do you have?Like I said at the beginning, I would start this week. This gives you time to pour over the special ads, as well as looking online. You need to allow time if you want to personalize your purchase or if it will need to be sized. And if you find the perfect piece online, you'll need to allow shipping time. Procrastination affects the types of jewelry, remaining selection, and purchase locations you can consider.
(5)What are you trying say with your jewelry gift?Jewelry speaks a language all its own and can say things you intended ““ and, unfortunately, things you didn't, if you're not careful. For example, if you're dating someone, but not ready to get engaged, steer clear of buying any kind of ring. It can send the wrong message. Instead, consider earrings, a necklace, or a nice watch. On the flip side, if you're trying to say, “I love you and I'd marry you all over again”, what you pick can be just about any type of jewelry, just as long as it is in tune with the receiver. The piece should reflect the person who will wear it, not just your own tastes. Picking something that speaks to them will deliver your message of love in lasting style.
(6)Will it need to be a certain size?Rings, in particular, need to be sized, and can affect what you buy. Some materials cannot be resized, due to their composition. Other things, such as setting styles or having gemstones encircle the entire ring, can also cause issues. If you aren't 100% sure of the correct ring size, make sure it can be adjusted if needed. Other pieces where sizing matters are watches, bracelets, and necklaces. You want to be sure the piece is not too tight or too loose; and in the case of necklaces, not too long or too short.
Once you've answered these questions, you're ready to shop. Although jewelers love customers to walk in and be guided into a purchase, this may not be the best way ““ and can certainly affect what you end up spending. Instead, I recommend going online first. Online browsing allows you to compare between retailers, view clearance, sale, and online-only merchandise, sort options by price ranges, and consider numerous pieces without any pressure.
After browsing online, you'll be better equipped to make a purchase. You can choose to visit a store in person, or take the option of ordering online.Whichever way you choose, for the next couple of weeks jewelers will be running great sales, and offering free shipping for online orders, so don't buy without first checking for coupons, offer codes, and special deals.Finally, please check reviews and return policies before investing in any piece of jewelry. Successful jewelry retailers generally work very hard to keep their customers happy with quality work and excellent customer service.
