FIND A FAVORABLE FIX.FIND A FAVORABLE FIX Q: How do I safeguard my jewelry from being switched at repair shops? A: Consider "birth marking" your stones. Several manufacturers, among them PhotoScribe (888-746-8672), offer this process whereby a laser is used to inscribe in·scribe tr.v. in·scribed, in·scrib·ing, in·scribes 1. a. To write, print, carve, or engrave (words or letters) on or in a surface. b. To mark or engrave (a surface) with words or letters. the stone with a secret code or serial number. Once a piece of jewelry has been repaired, you can look at it through a loupe loupe (lldbomacp) [Fr.] a magnifying lens. loupe n. A small magnifying lens. loupe a magnifying lens. to make sure your jeweler hasn't made a switch. Also, find out if the jeweler is a member of a trade organization such as Jewelers of America (800-459-0130) or the American Gem Society The American Gem Society (AGS) is a trade association of retail jewelers, independent appraisers, suppliers, and selective industry members, which was founded in 1934 by Robert M. Shipley, who also founded the (GIA). (www.ags.org or call 800-340-3028). The American Gem Society, based in Las Vegas Las Vegas (läs vā`gəs), city (1990 pop. 258,295), seat of Clark co., S Nev.; inc. 1911. It is the largest city in Nevada and the center of one of the fastest-growing urban areas in the United States. , frequently conducts secret shopping excursions to and inspections of its 890 retail member firms. In addition, consult your local Better Business Bureau (www.bbb.org) or chamber of commerce to find out how long the jeweler has been in business, advises Shaye Strager, spokesperson for the Jewelry Information Center (800-459-0130), a nonprofit trade association based in New York New York, state, United States New York, Middle Atlantic state of the United States. It is bordered by Vermont, Massachusetts, Connecticut, and the Atlantic Ocean (E), New Jersey and Pennsylvania (S), Lakes Erie and Ontario and the Canadian province of . The BBB can also tell you if any consumer complaints were filed against a particular jeweler. Strager also suggests that you request a complete description of your jewelry on your receipt; including the percentage of gold (given in karats)and description of your diamond, (the four Cs: cut, color, clarity and carat CARAT, weights. A carat is a weight equal to three and one-sixth grains, in diamonds, and the like. Jac. L. Dict. See Weight. weight). This may provide the best protection of all. --A.B. Mail your consumer-related concerns to Ask Your Advocate at BUCK ENTERPRISE magazine, 130 Fifth Avenue, 10th Floor, New York, NY 10011 or send an e-mail to brownmr@blackenterprise.com. |
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