When you are going to buy a washer and dryer or a new car, you take the time to learn about the special features to compare prices. Likewise, to ensure a wise purchase, an informed consumer should know about the metals used to make jewelry, the properties and qualities of diamonds, the variety of colored gemstones and their individual characteristics, and the manufacturing processes that yield the longest-lasting jewelry. Following is some important information to know before you go shopping.

Most jewelry is purchased to commemorate a special occasion, such as an engagement, anniversary, birthday or special achievement, and its sentimental value cannot be measured or replaced. For this reason, being an educated consumer and knowing the "ins and outs" of wise jewelry buying is important to guarantee that you will find the finest quality at the best value.

Since there are no special educational or training requirements needed to sell jewelry or open a jewelry store, consumers should educate themselves before shopping for jewelry. Make sure you know your jeweler by following these helpful tips:

Check the jewelry store's reputation by questioning friends and relatives who have shopped there.

Be sure the store has a long-standing, solid reputation in the community and in the industry. You want to be able to count on the store still being there if you have a problem.

Get a report on the business. This will give you a better insight into the company's past performance history - good or bad.

Many trade organizations require strict adherence to ethics and good business practices before they selling expensive products.

Ask about the gemological and appraisal education of the store's salespeople. While a college degree in jewelry does not exist, tips are available to further the knowledge of people in the jewelry industry.