While it is certainly tempting to frequent pawn shops in search of the diamonds you crave, you could be in for a world of trouble if you choose this method of purchasing stones. Certainly you will find better prices than, say, a diamond retailer, but it could end up costing you a lot more than you bargained for. Here are a few good reasons to skip the pawn shop when it comes to buying diamond jewelry.
1. Risk of exposure. What do you think would happen if you gave your girlfriend a diamond engagement ring only to discover that it was damaged in some way? If she insisted on returning it or having the jeweler fix it, how could you admit to her that you cheaped out and went to a pawn shop for the most important piece of jewelry she’ll ever own? Or worse, what if it ended up having some sort of engraving that you missed on earlier inspection? Considering the low prices you can find online, there’s really no need to flirt with trouble by opting for a pawn shop.
2. Fakes. A pawn-broker does not a jeweler make. While many who own hawk-shops employ the services of specialists now and again, or even dabble in gemology themselves, there are just as many unscrupulous characters who will sell you a piece of glass and call it a diamond.
3. Stolen goods. Pawn shops don’t tend to be terribly particular about where their merchandise comes from. And if you buy something that turns out to be stolen, you’re going to be on the hook to return it. You can always go after the pawn shop for reimbursement, but that’s a lot of work for a stone you don’t even have in the end.
4. Previous owners. A lot of people who pawn their diamonds do so because they need some quick cash, but they have every intention of buying them back when their boat comes in. Do you really want to swipe some poor kid’s heirloom engagement ring or risk them coming after you to collect it?
5. No recourse. Unfortunately, there is little recourse if you find that you didn’t really get what you paid for. Most pawn shops operate on an “as is” basis, meaning buyer beware. So unless you relish the thought of suing in small claims court, you better be willing to live with what you bought. Although, you might be better served by buying from a reputable diamond dealer to begin with.
