Are Online Diamonds a Scam?
If your wedding anniversary is approaching quickly and you are considering buying an online diamond - that is - a diamond you purchase through a web site, buyer beware. There are very good deals out there and there are a lot of scams. The last thing you want to do is have someone run off with your hard earned cash and send you a dud of diamond eternity rings for your wife.
So what can you do? Ask questions. Is it safe to buy that precious diamond you are after online? Are you assured of quality and a fair price? Can you compare different diamonds and will the vendor give you an honest answer to any questions? Does the stone have proper certification and is the company a reputable dealer?
These are some of the questions you may ask yourself about the pros and cons of buying online.
Pros:
Because of lower operation costs and stiff market competition, diamonds tend to be a lot cheaper online. You can also save on taxes by purchasing gems from another state or country.
Shopping online gives you the ability to check out several diamond sellers at once and compare selection and price. This gives you the opportunity to find the best cut diamonds at the best prices since vendors usually list all their stock.
The flexibility of some diamond sellers allows you to get the diamond shipped to you so that you can appraise it in your own environment. You could also take it to your local jeweler to compare with other diamonds. Make sure you read their return policy thoroughly and carefully.
Cons:
You are not guaranteed to receive a product that matches the description given by the vendor.
Buying online doesn’t give you the ability to compare the diamonds side-by-side.
You are not guaranteed a refund if you are not pleased with the diamond.
You can never be sure you’re going to get what you paid for when you shop online.
Safeguards for Online Diamonds
Here are a few ways you can protect your purchase:
Before you shop online it is a good idea to educate yourself on diamonds, especially on the four “C’s”; cut, clarity, colour, and carat. You should also ask about the fifth C -certification.
Make sure the diamond comes with an independent diamond grading report from a well known laboratory. The Gemological Institute of America (GIA) and American Gem Society (AGS) are considered the most reliable and consistent graders.
Research the seller to make sure they have the proper credentials for selling the diamonds. Check the post purchase services they provide and thoroughly read their return policy. If possible, contact previous customers for referrals.
After deciding on the diamond you want, compare prices with other sellers on the internet, and even check local jewelers.
When you buy and receive the diamond jewelry, take the diamond to an independent appraiser before the return policy runs out.
By following these simple safeguards when shopping on the internet, you can get a great deal on a great diamond.
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