Not surprisingly, it is home to a number of jewelry companies and individual jewelry shops, each offering its own interpretation of the art of creating showpieces of precious stones and metals. Therefore, it is next to impossible to find a jeweler Rockville MD residents will agree is the best, whether the consideration is price, creativity, quality, or any other measurement.

When searching for a jeweler who will meet your individual needs, there are a number of questions you can ask yourself and the jeweler. The answer to these questions can help you avoid disappointment and help you make the perfect choice for your next purchase.

First, remember that a jeweler of quality will take time to get to know you and your needs and preferences. Does the jeweler you are considering listen to you with a goal of understanding your goals?

Are they knowledgeable? Find out how long they have been in business and if they are likely to still be there five years from now if your purchase needs repair. Ask if they have certifications in gemology, sales, design, and management. Talk with the staff members to gauge their dedication to quality service as well as their working knowledge of gems and jewelry. Can they discuss properties of different kinds of gems and about different kinds of settings?

In the realm of jewelry repair, ask if they do repairs in the shop or if they must send the work elsewhere. Many chain stores located in shopping malls do not do repairs on site and so must operate this way. This can mean they can offer more extensive work, but it also means you cannot easily determine the quality of their repair work. Also, you will have to trust them with transporting your valuables to a distant location.

Ask if they are able to design and create their own jewelry. This will help you decide whether you can bring them a sketch of something that you made on a cocktail napkin and have it created to exceed your expectations.

Finally, determine if the jeweler is interested in your complete satisfaction, or if they simply are trying to sell you on the jewelry they have in their display case. Are they willing to help you seek out what you truly want, even if this means sending you to another retailer? Personal jewelers should be willing to do the legwork for you, then show you the designs that may suit your request at a later date.