How May We Help You > Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Why does my white gold ring look yellow?

White gold doesn't occur naturally. It's a mixture of yellow gold and white alloy (typically nickel). The finished jewelry piece is plated with rhodium (in the platinum family -- a naturally white metal), to give it a pure white look. Over time, the plating will wear, revealing the yellowish-white gold. Your jewelry piece can be re-plated with rhodium at a very low price -- typically $25-40.

Why does 14K gold give me a rash?

Individuals react differently to the nickel in the 14K gold (both yellow and white). An allergy can develop over time, and acid in skin can cause a reaction, as well. Rhodium plating will put a layer between skin and metal and stop the allergic reaction you are experiencing. You may also switch to platinum, which is naturally hypo-allergenic. Some nickel-free white gold is now available. You can also coat the metal with clear nail polish to protect your skin from the allergen.

What makes gold gold?

14K and 18K yellow = gold+copper+silver+zinc. 14K and 18K white gold = gold+copper+nickel+zinc. Rose gold = gold+copper.

What's the difference between white gold and platinum?

White gold is a mixture of gold and white alloys, not naturally occurring. Platinum is a naturally occurring white metal and is, therefore, hypo-allergenic. Platinum is also more precious than gold (usually 2x per ounce). Platinum is also denser and heavier, has "memory" and is good for prongs. However, platinum scratches more easily than gold and the scratches are more difficult to get out. That being said, platinum will last longer than gold.

What is the difference between precious and semi-precious gemstones?

Years ago, any gem that was not a ruby, sapphire or diamond was considered semi-precious. In truth, all gems are precious and valuable. Price is determined by availability and quality.

How can I judge the value and quality of a gemstone?

Use the same "five Cs" established for diamond quality: cut, carat weight, clarity, color and cost.

What are cultured pearls?

Almost all pearls are cultured. The culturing process takes about 1-3 years, 5 years for larger pearls. Culturing a pearl requires implanting a nucleus (usually a small piece of shell from another mollusk) into either an oyster or mussel. The oyster or mussel reacts to this irritation by producing nacre which then coats the nucleus. A pearl is born!

What are Tahitian pearls?

Tahitian pearls are parented by a black-lipped oyster which is why they are darker in hue.

What's the difference between saltwater pearls and freshwater pearls?

Saltwater pearls are parented by oysters, while freshwater pearls are parented by mussels.

How much money do I have to spend to get the gemstone I want?

There is a colored gemstone to fit any budget. Pay attention to the "five Cs" and consider alternatives if the gem and color you desire is too expensive. Rubies, emeralds and sapphires represent the classic red, green and blue gems. However, garnets come in red and green; while topaz comes in yellow, orange and blue. Both gems are readily available and less expensive options.

What if l fall in love with a gemstone, but I don't like the mounting?

Most gemstones are cut to consistent dimensions or "calibrated" sizes and, therefore, fit a variety of settings. You may have difficulty only if the gem you chose is unusually cut or already set into a custom made mounting. A knowledgeable jeweler will provide you with a variety of designs and price options that will suit the gemstone you selected.

Do you have to send my ring out for repair?

No. We do all jewelry repairs in-house.

Is custom work expensive?

It depends on the work you want done. You may supply the designs or ideas, or one of our talented jewelry designers can design a piece for you. Either way, the cost of custom work is worth it. You'll receive a one-of-a-kind piece of jewelry made to your specifications.

I inherited a ring from my grandmother. Can you take out the stone and make it into something I would wear?

Absolutely!

What's the difference between antique and estate jewelry?

Antique jewelry is typically 100 years old or more. Estate jewelry is recently pre-owned jewelry, and is usually30 to 70 years old. For more on antique and estate jewelry, read our primer (PDF).

What's the difference between replacement value and insurance value on my appraisal?

Full retail value is an over-inflated price some jewelers use -- usually 2x more than the paid for price. Replacement value is what it would actually cost to replace the item within five years. Replacement value ensures that you are not overpaying on insurance premiums. Insurance companies do not pay full retail value. It is recommended that you update replacement value appraisals every five to ten years.

I have some items I'd like to sell. Do you buy estates or offer consignments?

Haig's of Rochester will offer to buy or consign entire collections or single pieces which are of high quality, meet our standards and areas of interest. We then offer these items to private collectors, clients, dealers and at shows and through the Internet, including our web site and reputable web auctions. Using diverse options, we will work to maximize a client's yield. In addition, we research and reach qualified buyers.

What are conflict diamonds?

Conflict diamonds or "blood diamonds" are diamonds whose profits fund civil war, events of genocide or other atrocities. These diamonds are primarily outsourced from African countries. The Kimberley Process Certification System is designed to prevent conflict diamonds from entering the mainstream diamond market. Diamonds traded in participating countries go through a highly detailed and rigorous certification process before they are traded and sold. Because of the Kimberley Process Certification System, 99% of the world's diamonds are now from conflict free sources.

As a consumer, you should feel good about your diamond purchase. Ask family and friends for recommendations to find a jeweler you can trust. Make sure the jeweler is willing to spend time providing the information you need. A reputable jeweler should only use suppliers who can provide a guarantee that their diamonds are from sources free of conflict; have a conflict diamond policy; be able to answer a customer's questions about the topic.

Ask questions to get the assurance you need. See our Diamond section for more about conflict diamonds.