Mark Rogozinski - Owner - Marquis Jewelers | LinkedIn.

Find out how long the jeweler has been in business, if she/he belongs to any professional associations, and if they are a member of the GIA Alumni Association. Once you have selected your gem or piece of jewelry, it is a good idea to get an independent laboratory report on your stone.

They will have professional tests that will determine whether your jewelry is real as well as the purity of the metal itself. A certified appraiser will be able to provide the value of the piece as well. Of course, buying pieces from a reputable jeweler is one way to ensure quality, high-end pieces.

Most professional jewelers agree that high-quality, fine jewelry can make for both a great financial and style investment. Just a small number of expensive pieces, either handcrafted or from high-end retailers and brands, can give you a capsule collection that will uplevel any outfit.