Mar 25 2009
Buying Diamonds Online
When you consider all of the possible cons concerning diamonds, obtaining them online almost seems unthinkable! However, you actually can buy these stones online, devoid of any problems - as long as you practice care. First, go over your reasons for wanting to purchase the stone online, as opposed to making a purchase from a nearby jewelry shop. The most popular reason is of course price and due to lower maintenance costs, Internet dealers and wholesalers are able to providing a much price, though you must exercise care as sometimes a price that isn't high enough is a sure indication of a scam.
One of the best aspect about purchasing on the Internet is the unlimited selection. While browsing offline, you're restricted to the items in the stores in your region whereas online, there aren't any limitations. However, you must use a lot of care and discrimination prior to handing your money over to someone which you cannot see and haven't met in person!
Before shopping, learn the most you can about diamonds - definitely cut, color, clarity along with carat weights. If you are educated on the subject of diamonds, it will be harder for the scammer to take advantage of you. Once you have know knowledge regarding diamonds, you'll be ready to start looking around. Be patient and do not buy the first diamond which you lay eyes on and catches your interest, instead, look for like diamonds that are available.
Do some comparison shopping to find the cheapest prices and once you've located the smallest price, commence doing the research. You now knowledgeable about diamonds, and you have located a diamond that you admire, and to top it off you have found the lowest price - however you are a long way from actually purchasing this great stone! Ask about the dealer's qualifications, such as what professional jewelry organizations that they belong to. View and make a hard copy of the dealer's return, repayment, as well as upgrade policies but also to ask about supplemental services, like mounts, sizing, and free shipping. Perform a search for customer reviews on that specific organization around the Internet and inquire with the Better Business Bureau on their site to see if there have been any complaints.
Request a diamond grading report generated by an impartial laboratory such as GIA, HRD, EGL or AGS which you need to look at prior to purchasing the diamond. Finally, use a reputable escrow service for high priced gemstones - preferably a service which would have the diamond is appraised while it is within their custody. The dealer ships the diamond off to the escrow service, and you send the money to pay for the diamond to the escrow service. The service gets your stone appraised, then ships the diamond to you, and sends the money to your dealer. That's the best method of protect yourself and, once again, ensure that you use a reputable escrow service!