Frequently, I'm asked by my appraisal clients to tell them about their recent jewelry purchase. Since appraisals are one of our specialties, I'm happy to oblige. Most people are taken-in by commissioned jewelry sales clerks singing a song of high quality and high value. This is often the situation with the person who has been impulse shopping such as in the islands. Actually this is true with most resort places. Rarely is the item exactly as it is suppose to be. When it is, we're all happy.

My best advice to people away from normal shopping haunts is to go ahead and purchase souvenir of your trip, as we all want mementos from our travels. But, pay no more than what you are willing to throw away. Get a charm or something inexpensive but do not purchase expensive jewelry. Your possibility of return will not be an easy or a happy one.

The cruise ship will always endorse particular jewelry stores. But their endorsement means nothing more than they get paid a commission from your purchase. Even cruise ships now have become their own vendor.

Ever tried to send something back from a cruise purchase? It is difficult at best. What good is saving the sales tax if the grade of their diamond is lower than their claim? This is true of purchasing anywhere, but at least you have a greater possibility of returning or negotiating for better. Beware of certificates, grading reports, appraisals and warranties, as these are written by people . . . and there are all types of people.

So, if you do not know your jewelry . . . then know us (Mackley & Company).