While I don't currently have much of a budget for anything too extravagant, I always love going to browse and dream. So when Nadine called me and asked for some company while shopping for some pearls (a gift for a family member), I was happy to tag along.
It was a short trip and Nadine found what she was looking for pretty quickly, in large part because we've done the jewelry district several times together and we have a system down. While we were waiting for the strand of pearls she selected to be finished and exchanged memories of our first trip downtown, I decided to share some of the strategies we've developed of the course of our previous shopping trips.
Here are some keys to making your jewelry mart trip a success.
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1) Take it all in first, and take your time.
You're going to feel a little snow blind from all the sparkle. Give your eyes time to adjust before you start looking in earnest. And having some Kleenex handy to wipe away the drool helps.
2) Unless you have an unlimited budget, have a plan.
Otherwise it's easy to get distracted by so many pretty things, spend a bunch of money, and not come out with what you really needed/wanted.
3) When you see something you like, get a business card from the vendor with a description of the item and the price they quoted.
If you have a camera phone, take a picture if the vendor allows it (which they may not if the design is an original). Because different sellers have similar examples of many pieces, avoid buying the first one you see. Someone else may give you a better price for the same piece, so don't be afraid to look around before you commit. When you do find the best price for the perfect piece, you have a way to find the vendor again.
4) Always negotiate.
Remember, these merchants supply the same jewelry you see at a major mall store but at wholesale prices, so the price they're quoting to you still ensures them a profit. In order to negotiate most effectively, research retail prices for the kind of pieces you want so you know if you're getting a good deal. Also keep in mind that if you're buying gold, the vendor will weigh the piece and quote you a price based on the daily market rate per ounce for the quality of gold you're purchasing.
If you can afford to pay in cash, they seller may offer you an even better deal. Don't worry -- there are ATM's only blocks away if you need an emergency cash transfusion.
5) Don't be afraid to ask questions.
A reputable vendor will be forthcoming with information about your potential purchase, including any authentication papers or other certificates, the age or origin of the piece, and an honest assessment of it's condition. And if you see something new, don't be afraid to ask what it is! For example, I discovered that Topaz comes in unique color variations, like the combination of purple and green in the photo above.
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So even though my budget doesn't have much extra space, I did treat myself to a little upgrade on the chain for my NHL Dream Capsule. Sterling silver, 26" long, and a bargain at $20.
Happy shopping!
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