How To Buy Jewelry

JewelClub.com shares our most important jewelry gift giving tips - from purchasing that dazzling diamond engagement ring to giving mom that perfect pearl strand. You'll never wonder how (and when) to buy fine jewelry again.

You can't wait to slip that engagement ring on her finger. You know mom will burst into tears at the sight of sapphires. Your friends will drool when you show off that right hand ring. There is no reason fine jewelry shopping should be anything but fun, informational and ultimately satisfying. But research shows consumers find buying fine jewelry one of the least enjoyable shopping experiences.

The following guide will not only tell you how to buy jewelry, but will give you gift giving tips every shopper should know before heading to the jewelry counter or making an online purchase. Our goal is to transform trepidation into confidence. Jewelry jitters be gone!

Know the facts:

We've all heard it before: knowledge is power. Buying jewelry can be one of the first major purchases in your lifetime, so it's important to know the facts before you face all the glitter. Click on the links below to educate yourself about gold, diamonds and gemstones. Thinking of popping the question? Be sure to check out our Bridal Tips as well. We promise it won't be as bad as algebra class.

• Gold Education
• Diamond Education
• Gemstone Education
• Bridal Tips

Gift Giving

Jewelry can be the most important gift you give a loved one. Feeling the pressure? We understand. Guys, in particular, pay attention to the following gift giving tips. We guarantee you'll impress her with your remarkable taste and insight.

Know your audience:

There's nothing like that look you get when you know you missed the mark. The slight grimace followed by the fake smile? The best way to avoid awkward gift giving is to study what your significant other likes. What does she usually wear? Has she complimented friends on their looks? You know how to make her laugh, you can surely pick up some tips on her personal style. Take notes and bring what you know on your shopping trip.

Know your budget:

There are many price points in the jewelry world - from $99 to $9999 and beyond. Don't get in over your head with a bauble that will break the bank or make her afraid to wear it. Also, bring what you learned about stone and metal quality to the store, so you won't be duped into thinking 'bigger is better'. Often, it's not.

Know her size (mainly for ring purchases):

There's nothing like wowing her with a diamond ring she'll just have to wait three weeks to wear. Guys, break out your inner sleuth for this one. Find a ring she currently wears, trace the inside and bring it to your jeweler. You can always size a ring, but delayed satisfaction doesn't always fly when it comes to jewelry.

Know the occasion:

• If you're not about commitment but want to impress her with a gift of jewelry, word to the wise: stay away from the ring category. A ring, no matter what the design, is loaded with symbolism that screams "I'm in it for the long haul." A nice pair of diamond studs might be the better choice in this case.
• Right Hand Rings are the perfect self-gifting occasion to celebrate a promotion, graduation, or 'just because'. It's also a great friend-to-friend or mother-to daughter gift. Think female power!
• The 'go big' calendar moments are of course Valentine's Day and the December holidays. If she's expecting a ring, and you're thinking peridot earrings to match her eyes?you might want to think again.