Frequently Asked Questions

1. Why should I get an appraisal?
First and foremost most insurance companies require an appraisal in order to insure the piece of jewelry. Regular inspection of your fine jewelry helps to keep it in good condition, but an appraisal will note any damage and also let you know if the value of your jewelry has increased.

2. How often should I get an appraisal?
An appraisal is recommended every five years, however, with fluctuating price of metals you may wish to have an appraisal done every three years.

3. How much should I spend on an engagement ring?
There are lots of factors to consider when determining your engagement ring budget. Yes, its true that the jewelry industry recommends anywhere from 2 to 3 months salary. However, you need to consider what works best for your lifestyle. Some things to consider are: How are you paying for it? Are you saving in advance or purchasing your ring on a credit card? How long will it take you to pay off the ring? What sort of interest rate are you being offered – does it make more sense to get a bank loan, use an existing credit card or take the option of a jewelry store credit card offer? Do you have any other large purchases on the horizon, like a car, house, wedding? How secure is your job? If job security is a concern you may wish to consider being conservative on your budget. Does your salary involve a bonus structure – does it make sense to dedicate a portion of your bonus to the engagement ring budget?

4. What does ideal cut really mean?
The phrase ideal cut was first used in 1919 to describe a diamond cut to the proportions that were mathematically determined by Marcel Tolkowsky. Diamonds cut to this formula have the maximum balance of dispersion, scintillation and brilliance. Over the years this term “ideal cut” has become diluted in the jewelry industry as advertisers have used it in an effort to give cache or importance to diamonds that are not cut to the original 1919 formula.

5. Do I have to get a diamond engagement ring?
The short answer is no. An engagement ring is merely a symbol of your love and intended commitment towards one another. That can be represented by any type of ring. Diamonds are typically the most requested ring but if you or your loved one prefers another precious stone, then buy what appeals to you. The only recommendation I would make is to consider the durability of the stone you are selecting. One of the reasons diamonds make such a great choice is because they are the hardest substance and can take daily wear and tear better than softer stones.

6. What if I get the wrong size ring?
Don’t panic. Most rings can be re-sized without much of a problem as long as the ring is within ½ size of what is needed.

For answers to additonal questions please contact:

diamondjen@adviceonTHERING.com

310.486.8344

1618 Chalcedony Court . Folsom, CA 95630