There are so many different gemstones, metals and jewelers to choose from that the choices can be overwhelming. Make sure your jeweler is properly certified and has gemological training. For example, the American Gem Society awards titles of Registered Jeweler, Certified Gemologist and Certified Gemologist Appraiser, to qualified members who study required courses, pass extensive annual exams and adhere to strict ethical standards.
Quality is jewelry's most important asset.
A smaller stone of higher quality will appreciate more in value over time, than a larger stone of lesser quality. Comparison shopping based on price alone is not enough. Ask the jeweler about the quality and cut of the gemstones and the workmanship of the piece before automatically buying the lower-priced item. Gold may be gold, but only karat gold is real gold. For example, pure gold is 24-karat.