Getting custom jewellery made and a gem set here how does it work is it safe and how do I not get ripped off

Gem trade family and jeweller so let me walk you through it honestly Is it worth it YES done right it is wonderful Sri Lanka is one of the worlds great sapphire (and other gem) sources and having a local stone set into a custom piece by a skilled jeweller is a genuinely special meaningful keepsake and often excellent value the craftsmanship here is very good How custom work works you choose a loose gem (or have one sourced) discuss the design (ring pendant setting metal) with the jeweller who then makes it turnaround is often a few days to a week or so for a custom piece (factor it into your trip plan it for a base where you stay a while or can return) you approve the design and it is made to order Trusting the gem and metal THIS is the key and where care matters get a CERTIFICATE for any significant gem a reputable jeweller provides or arranges an independent gemmological certificate (the National Gem and Jewellery Authority and recognised labs certify stones) insist on it for the metal reputable jewellers hallmark and state the gold purity (and you can have it tested) a trustworthy seller welcomes independent verification Avoiding the rip off the gem scam threads are right to warn you the rules NEVER buy from a tout a tuk tuk driver taking you to his friend or a too good to be true street deal (the classic scam) BUY from an established reputable jeweller with a real shop and reputation (the recognised gem dealers in Colombo and the gem capital Ratnapura and the trusted established names) get the independent certificate do not be rushed or pressured be wary of any deal involving exporting and reselling for profit (a known scam) pay by traceable means where possible Finding a trustworthy jeweller go to the established reputable jewellers (ask your hotel for a recognised name not a tout look for the long standing shops the certified dealers and the strong genuine reviews) Ratnapura is the gem heartland and Colombo has the reputable houses Versus buying at home you get a wider choice of stones better prices at source and the meaning of a custom local piece just do it through a legitimate certified channel so the walk through yes get a certified Sri Lankan gem set into a custom piece by an established reputable certified jeweller insist on the independent gem certificate and stated metal purity never deal with touts or street pressure and allow the days for the work and you get a beautiful trustworthy meaningful keepsake