SMART DIAMOND BUYING Get complete quotes in writing Use this form to get a guaranteed complete quote from a jeweler. This form assures the grading is accurate, because it requires a jeweler to guarantee in writing their grading can be verified by The Gemological Institue of America(GIA)or The American Gem Society(AGS). If a jeweler does not have the confidence and expertise to fill out and sign the form, I wouldn't buy there. Don't be fooled by "wholesale" claims Many, many, many times we have seen people buy poor quality and pay too much, because they were told it was a "wholesale" price. Or perhaps they knew a friend who promised a great "deal" and they failed to actually compare prices with other jewelers (especially Wilsons!). Regardless of how good it sounds, ask questions (Questions you should ask) and make sure to compare any quotes with other jewelers. Be wary of "certified" diamonds There are all kinds of merchants lately that use "certificates" to validate their diamond grades. These non-authentic "certificates" look credible but do not have the legitimacy of a GIA (Gemological Institute of America). Diamond Grading Report or AGS (American Gem Society)Diamond Quality Document. These grading reports (GIA, AGS) are the industry standards, and a wise buyer will not accept other grading reports. (For more information on "certified" diamonds see our Certified section herein. Salespeople who use pressure have higher prices or work on commission Avoid these merchants and dealers. There is no reason to pressure customers if the jeweler doesn't mind you comparing their prices and quality. Also, a commissioned salesperson sells what's best for him, not you. Always buy a loose (not mounted) diamond Imperfections and low quality can easily be hidden on a mounted diamond. Find a place that shows their diamonds separate from their rings and then mounts the diamond in the ring of your choice. Low overhead does not necessarily mean low price One dealer may mark up very little (even charge his cost) and yet, because of his buying price, may be charging more. Don't assume the price is low just because you are in someone's home or small office. Be very distrustful of "sales" Compare the bottom line price after the 'sale' and you'll find that the "regular" price is highly marked up to enable a continual "discount". Ironically, this "discount price" is usally more than a normal price elsewhere! Put guarantees and freebies in their proper perspective Some guarantees are nice but most are fluff with many disclaimers in fine print. "Freebies" are not really free. These have to be paid for in extra mark-up to cover the cost, no matter what the salesperson tells you. Decide where to buy based on the core issues of quality and price first, and then consider guarantees and freebies to see if they add anything significant. Trust your instincts If you feel uneasy about any salesperson or dealer, don't buy there. You may not even know why you feel that way, but it's probably valid.