GOLD & DIAMOND EDUCATION
Know the details.
Choose with intention.
A jewelry description should help you understand the actual piece. Use these points to guide questions about materials, stones, fit and the information accompanying an offer.
01 / GOLD & PRECIOUS METALS
Purity is one detail.
Construction is another.
Gold purity is commonly expressed in karats: parts of gold out of 24. For example, 18K represents 75% gold; 14K is approximately 58.3%. Colour and purity describe different aspects of an alloy.
Ask whether a piece is solid or hollow, and whether its description refers to a solid precious-metal alloy, plating or another construction. Gold-coloured appearance alone does not establish metal content.
A quality mark, where applied, must meet the applicable Canadian marking rules. Request the actual item description, stated purity, relevant weight and any supplied documentation. Metal purity is not a promise of resale value.
A useful distinction
Karat describes gold purity. Carat is a measure used for gemstone weight. Neither word, by itself, tells the whole story of a piece.
02 / DIAMONDS
Beyond
the sparkle.
Cut
How a diamond’s proportions and finish influence its interaction with light. Cut quality and outline shape are different details.
Colour
A description of colour characteristics. Ask which description or grading information applies to the actual stone.
Clarity
Characteristics within or on the diamond. A general category is not a guarantee that a stone has no features.
Carat weight
A measure of weight. Stones of the same weight can have different dimensions and appearances.
Ask whether a diamond is natural or laboratory-grown, whether any treatments are known, and what identification or grading documentation is supplied. A diamond simulant is a different material and should be described accordingly.
A report describes the stone within its scope. It is not the same as a retail price, an insurance valuation or a guarantee of future value. Do not infer a laboratory report or affiliation from a website image.
03 / FIT & CARE
A piece for
the way you live.
Confirm ring size, band width, chain or bracelet length, fastening and overall proportions before acceptance. Fit can be affected by the design; ask about any adjustment or resizing terms for the specific piece.
Store pieces separately and keep jewelry away from harsh chemicals, abrasive cleaning and activities likely to damage a setting. If a stone or fastening feels loose, stop wearing the piece and seek an appropriate assessment.
Cleaning suitability depends on the metal, stone, treatment and setting. Ask for care guidance for the actual piece before using chemicals, steam or ultrasonic equipment.
THE INDIVIDUAL OFFER
Before you
make it yours.
- See photographs of the actual item or the agreed custom design.
- Confirm metal, construction, dimensions, weight and stone descriptions.
- Ask what documents, reports or express warranties are supplied.
- Check the exact CAD amount, taxes, delivery charges and payment schedule.
- Understand delivery, sizing, cancellation and return terms.
- Keep the accepted offer, invoice and order communications.
PERSONAL JEWELRY INQUIRIES
Begin with a conversation.
A piece you have in mind. A detail you want to understand. A design that feels personal. Tell us where you would like to begin.