Smart Shopping - Questions to Ask Before You Buy

• If the answer is vague or unclear, keep digging
• Quality sellers will be specific and proud of their construction method
  

• Should be clearly stated (10K, 14K, 18K, 24K)
• If they can't tell you, it's probably plated
  

• Quality gold jewelry will have karat stamps. Silver will be stamped "925" "940" or "999"
• Ask for photos of the stamps if shopping online and they aren't visible
  

• Important for people with metal sensitivities
• Brass and copper are common base metals
  

Sterling silver should be clearly marked as 925 or Sterling

Silver plated is much less expensive but temporary (it will wear or flake off eventually)

If they say no to sterling silver, they don't understand their product

Real sterling silver will always tarnish eventually

Quality sterling silver will have clear markings

Honest sellers will explain maintenance needs and longevity

Especially important for online purchases

Quality sellers stand behind their descriptions

Wire gauge, soldering methods, finishing techniques

Knowledgeable sellers love talking about craftsmanship

• "Gold jewelry" without specifying type
• "Real gold" without karat information
• "Silver tone" or "gold tone" (usually means plated)
• "High quality" without specific details
  

• Solid gold pieces priced like gold plated
• No explanation for unusually low prices
• Prices that seem too good to be true usually are
  

• Sellers who can't answer basic questions about their products
• Defensive responses when you ask for clarification
• Reluctance to provide additional photos or information
  

• No mention of stamps or markings
• Unclear about metal content
• No care instructions provided
• Vague return policies
  

• You want heirloom quality
• You have sensitive skin
• You wear jewelry daily
• You're making a long-term investment
• You value sustainability (can be recycled indefinitely)
  

• You want gold quality at a lower price point
• You wear jewelry regularly but want to invest less
• You have some metal sensitivities
• You want pieces that will last years, not months
  

• You're trying a trend or new style
• Budget is your primary concern
• You wear the piece occasionally
• You understand and accept that it's temporary
  

• You love cool-toned metals
• You want to build an affordable collection
• You don't mind simple maintenance
• You appreciate metals that develop character over time
  

• Read reviews, especially negative ones
• Check how they handle complaints
• Look for clear contact information
• Verify return policies before purchasing
  

• Close-ups of any stamps or markings
• Different angles and lighting
• Size comparisons with common objects
  

• How is the piece protected during shipping?
• Is insurance included for valuable items?
• What happens if the piece arrives damaged?
  
  

• Last longer, reducing replacement costs
• Maintain their appearance with basic care
• Can be passed down or resold
• Provide satisfaction from owning something well-made
  

• Need frequent replacement
• May cause skin reactions
• Cannot be repaired or refinished
• Often end up costing more over time
  

• A few quality pieces you'll wear regularly
• Classic styles that won't go out of fashion
• Pieces that work well together
  

• Statement pieces for special occasions
• Trendy items (consider gold plated for these)
• Unique or artistic pieces that speak to you
  

• Active lifestyle = prioritize durability
• Professional environment = classic, polished pieces
• Creative expression = unique, artistic pieces
  

• Test metal content
• Assess quality and craftsmanship
• Provide accurate valuations
• Offer maintenance and repair services

• There's no "wrong" choice, only informed choices
• Quality pieces are investments in your daily joy
• Understanding what you're buying prevents disappointment
• Your jewelry should be as authentic as you are