Buying jewelry in NYC isn’t for the faint of heart. With so many stores to choose from and an entire block (47th street and Fifth Avenue) dedicated to selling diamonds and jewelry, the prospect of finding a piece of jewelry that you are someone you love will cherish is a daunting task. While shopping in NYC is very different from shopping anywhere else, with a few tips, you can be on your way to purchasing beautiful and unique jewelry or diamonds for a great price. The Diamond District For a great place to start shopping in jewelry stores in NYC, begin in the Diamond District. This is an entire block of shops dedicated to selling jewelry, whether wholesale or retail. With different unique shops, as well as flea market style set ups sprinkled throughout the block, there are many options for finding that perfect piece. The Diamond District has over 2,600 diamond businesses, most of which are found in the 25 jewelry exchanges. For the nearest subway to the Diamond District, take the B/D/F/M to 47th street/Rockefeller Center. Most of the stores will be closed on the weekend, unfortunately, so be sure to visit during the week between regular business hours. Fifth Avenue to Sixth Avenue In using the Diamond District, keep in mind that the higher end businesses (and the pricier ones, as a result) will be located near Fifth Avenue. Also, if you are looking for brand name jewelry, Fifth Avenue is a great place to start, as it is home to many of the world’s more expensive and well known retail companies’ flagship stores. Hawkers When buying jewelry in NYC, healthy skepticism is a great tool to have. Be aware of hawkers who fill 47th street. These hawkers are employed by the stores and receive commission when they bring in a customer. This may affect the price of jewelry for you, in turn. Avoid them at all costs, and be sure to actively keep an eye on any valuables you bring into the Diamond District. Viewing a Diamond When viewing a diamond in any store front, whether brand name jewelry or a store in the Diamond District, be sure to learn everything about the diamond that you can. Ask about the grade of the diamond, who grades their diamonds, and what kind of education they have. Always compare diamonds or other jewels for price, as some stores may have better deals than others. For every diamond, evaluate the cut, color, clarity, and carat to determine whether or not you are getting a good deal for the diamond. Ask whether or not your diamond has been treated; if so, your diamond will be worth much less, and may not last long without cracking or fracturing. Getting Everything in Writing When deciding to purchase a diamond after going through the above steps, ensure that the jewelry store offers paperwork to go with the diamond. A sales receipt is a must for a diamond, and having a list of the qualities your diamond possesses is a must for any appraisal in the future, or for any insurance claim. Be sure to read through any paperwork the store has on their guarantees, warranties, or return policy. Ask for a gemological certificate to go with your purchase or an appraisal of your diamond. Face to Face When purchasing a diamond, be sure to speak with someone in person, rather than over the phone or over the internet. Seeing the diamond in person is always preferable and will ensure that you get the best deal for your money. All in all, getting a great deal on a beautiful piece of jewelry is very possible in jewelry stores nyc. By following the above tips, you can be sure to protect yourself from unscrupulous people, and purchase something you or someone you love will cherish for forever.
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