How to know if you are working with a good Jeweler?

MnHGirl

After having many issues (functional and customer service) with my engagement ring and wedding band from a box store we were finally authorized to receive a refund to return it (what a mess to deal with!).

My husband wants to go shopping to get me something different, I guess I am just leary now after everything and do not want to go through a mess again. Aside from online reviews- how do you know you are working with a place that will have a good product and good customer service? Any signs to look for?

Thanks everyone!    

artbyallie

Choose a locally-owned place that also does repairs in-house. Ask friends/family/neighbors who they go to for repairs. If you don't have someone local, look online, particularly on Etsy and just make sure they have good feedback. Don't get drawn in by deals that seem too good to be true and don't look for a huge discount. Big chains have a tendency to mark up 5x wholesale and then discount 50-60% to make it seem like you're getting a deal when really it's still not even worth what you're paying.

lovemesomemonster

I agree with a locally-owned place, that is where we went for mine and we have really enjoyed working with the local store we are working with. I got mine sized in a couple of days and they are very helpful with all information we ask about and we get great one on one customer service from them. Talk to people local to you that have gone with a smaller place like that and see if they have any place they would recommend. 

MnHGirl

Thanks for the help! 

We are done with box stores for any jewelry needs. 

lyndausvi

Locally owned with a long history is a good place to start.    Word of mouth.   Asking friends, family and co-workers for references.

My family has been going to the same local jeweler for 30-something years.   They have been in business for 60-something years.    Friends and extend family now use them from our references.