An easy buy diamonds guide.
switching (Jewelry fraud)

    To avoid unnecessary worry and prevent your diamond from being switched when you have it repaired or appraised, take notice of the following suggestions:

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    1. Know your diamond. Note the color, type of girdle and clarity characteristics (chips, scratches, naturals, clouds, feathers, etc.) and their locations. These are characteristics you can observe with a loupe. A certificate is your best documentation because it records all the key quality characteristics.

    2. Record descriptive characteristics on the store's receipt for any diamond you leave. While stores often don't have time to determine accurate color and clarity grades, they should be willing to write down characteristics that are visible. This documentation not only serves as evidence in case of switching, it can actually help prevent it from occurring. If you have a diagram (i.e., certification) or photograph of your diamond, ask the store if it will serve as a fair representation of the item.

    3. Clean your diamond before you take it to be repaired or appraised. By examining the diamond in the same condition you will receive it back, you are more likely to recognize your diamond.

    4. Beware of jewelers who do repairs for unbelievably low prices. Perhaps a lack of experience or honesty may be the reason for such low prices.

    5. Try to establish a relationship with a jeweler you feel is trustworthy. Even then it does not hurt to make them aware that you have taken the precautions above.