May 27, 2010
Mind Your Qs & As
Don’t hesitate to ask questions of the jeweler. Demand professionalism, honesty, knowledge, and ethical business practices.
Q: Are you a member in the American Gem Society (AGS)?
Best A: Yes, we’ve been members since [ date ]. We are among a select group of jewelers nationwide that have met the strict standards for American Gem Society membership. Our dedication to ethical business standards is your assurance that you are shopping with a jeweler you can trust.
Bottom line: If they’re not members of the AGS, what professional association do they belong to and why?
Q: Do you have any professional credentials from the American Gem Society?
Best A: Yes, my title [Registered Jeweler, Certified Gemologist, or Certified Gemologist Appraiser] was earned by having both gemological education and industry experience. Our store has [#] titleholders on staff. And, my AGS title must be renewed annually through continuing education, proven ethics, and a recertification exam. This means you can be confident in our up-to-date knowledge and professionalism.
Bottom line: If they don’t have professional credentials from the American Gem Society, what education have they completed and how up-to-date is that knowledge?
Q: Do you know how to determine the grade of a diamond?
Best A: Yes, in order to achieve my title, I had to pass a diamond grading class to prove I understand and can explain the value factors to our customers. It’s not enough to just read a report to you. It’s important that I can interpret the report and advise you on the value of the diamond – as well as verify the diamond to the report.
Bottom line: If the jeweler doesn’t know diamonds, don’t get to know him (or her).
Q: Do you guarantee the quality of your diamonds?
Best A: Yes, with every diamond, you receive a Statement of Replacement Cost documenting our grading of the diamond and its value – whether it has an independent lab report or not. In fact, only AGS stores can offer a true guarantee backed by the integrity of the AGS Laboratories. This is called a Diamond Quality™ Certificate.
Bottom line: The jeweler is responsible for the accuracy of the diamond’s quality and size. Although these grades are opinions by various professionals, the reputation of the grading report along with the jeweler’s expertise should put your mind at ease.
Only American Gem Society members are held accountable by a Grievance and Review Process within the Society guidelines. Any consumer or jeweler can file a complaint with the CEO of the AGS. (www.AmericanGemSociety.org) You deserve the correct answers – delivered with integrity. Questions? …Dii
