When a person enters the market to buy a diamond, be it for an engagement ring, anniversary or other special occasion, many questions enter the buyers mind. Is this a good diamond? How do I know I’m not getting ripped off? Can I get it for less if I shop around? Is this jeweler honest? Whew! Who would think that buying a symbol of love could be such a daunting task? Well, it really isn’t, and if you deal with a professional jeweler, it can be quite a pleasant experience! Jeweler’s Row in Philadelphia is THE place to shop for a diamond. You will find the largest selection of diamonds anywhere in the Delaware Valley on Jeweler’s Row because there are over 100 stores in a 2-block area! It would take weeks to visit as many jewelry stores anywhere else. With so many jewelers concentrated in one area, you could shop in one afternoon, and because competition sets the price, you will find the best buys here. We will outline several common sense tips on how you should approach buying a diamond, and what to look for in a jeweler.

You should always ask the jeweler you are dealing with what credentials he or she has. Do they have specific degrees and certifications on diamonds from establishments such as the GIA, (Gemological Institute of America) or are they just salesmen? You wouldn’t think of going to a doctor, lawyer or accountant without any formal education. You should expect the same from a professional jeweler.

Be sure that any diamond you buy comes with no hassle money back guarantee within a reasonable amount of time. A professional jeweler will provide you with an independent certification on your diamond that assures you that it’s the quality that is represented to you, and will give you a reasonable amount of time to have it checked by an independent appraiser. GIA, EGL USA, AGS and AGA certificates are among the best gems labs to look for.

You should always buy a diamond from a bricks and mortar store, where you can talk face to face with a diamond professional and compare diamonds side by side to see the differences from one to another. We have a website with an online store, but our policy is to NOT sell diamonds online. Check out some of the online stores selling diamonds. Time and time again, you will see 10 diamonds or more with the same weight, color and clarity and yet, see prices that differ by as much as 30 percent! How can that be? Ron DeSumma always says that he wouldn’t buy a steak at the supermarket without seeing it, so why would anyone consider spending thousands of dollars on a diamond without ever laying their eyes on it?

We don’t recommend buying a diamond as an investment. While diamonds are rare and do have value, you will not be able to sell a diamond a year or two after buying it and realize a profit. However, a diamond over the years will hold its value and in time, will be worth far more than you paid for it. Remember that your diamond is an investment in your relationship!
Check out any jeweler’s reputation by visiting the Better Business Bureau’s website. The best stores will have a pristine record with the BBB. There are also online reviews of just about every jewelry store in the tri-state area so you can read about the experiences that others have had.

We are proud of the sterling reputation that we’ve earned over the years with each of our valued clients. From corporate executives, to professional athletes, to everyday persons like you and us, we pride ourselves in the referrals and repeat business that can only come from honesty, integrity and value. No matter the price, it’s great to see a happy couple leave our store with a sparkling diamond on a woman’s hand, and a smile on a man’s face knowing that he’s done good!

Please visit our website at www.desummaandwexler.com  for more information on
buying a diamond, or feel free to call us at 215-627-5379 with any questions that you might have.