10 Tips for Buying a Diamond Online

November 24, 2015

Consumers have more options than ever when it comes to buying diamonds. In addition to jewelry retailers, you can shop from your computer, tablet or smartphone. Many of the same considerations apply whether you’re buying a diamond in person or online, but GIA has a few additional tips for shopping online that will help you click the “Buy Now” button with confidence.

1. Research and learn

As with any significant purchase, start by researching your options. Educate yourself about the 4Cs and determine which diamond qualities are most important to you. This decision, along with your budget, will help guide your diamond purchase.

2. Look for specifics

When shopping online, make sure you know exactly what you are buying. Some sites show diamonds with a range in carat weight, color or clarity. To ensure you know the value of the stone you’re purchasing, look for specifics on its 4Cs, not a range.

3. Look for a grading report

Make sure the diamond comes with an independent grading report, like those provided by GIA, which provides an unbiased analysis of the diamond’s 4Cs. A diamond’s value is largely determined by quality, so an objective, third-party assessment of the 4Cs is critical.

4. Verify the GIA report with Report Check

If the diamond comes with a GIA report, you can verify the report details on Report Check, GIA’s secure, online database and even print out a facsimile of the report, when available. It’s a convenient way to make sure that the online product description matches the grading results.

5. Look for a laser inscription

For added security, find out if the diamond’s grading report number is laser-inscribed on its girdle. In some cases the diamond will be inscribed before it is offered for sale, or it can be requested at the time of purchase. In addition to the diamond’s unique GIA report number, the inscription can be a personal message or symbol for identification. The microscopic inscription is viewable under 10X magnification, using a jeweler’s loupe, and because it’s noted on the diamond’s GIA report, it will help ensure that the diamond you receive matches the report issued for it.

6. Know the seller

Once you’ve decided on the diamond that’s right for you, there are a few quick checks to do on the company you’re considering buying from. You’ll want to know:

• How long has the company been in business?
• What kind of reviews has the company received?
• Does it belong to any jewelry trade associations? (Associations often have ethical guidelines members have to meet.)
• Do they offer secure transactions?
• Are the online representatives helpful?
• What is the return policy?
• Where is the seller located?
• How will the diamond be shipped? Is the shipment insured? Is signature required for delivery?
• In addition to the above, if you’re buying from online auction sites, you’ll also want to look into buyer feedback and ratings and determine if the seller is providing sufficient evidence of the quality of the diamond offered for sale, such as photographs, a grading report, or report number that can be verified

7. Consider the payment method

Each online retailer or auction site will specify how it will accept payment. If you paid with a credit card and if there is a problem with the purchase, most credit card companies provide recourse. Using a check or a money order for your purchase can reduce your options.

8. Proceed cautiously with out-of-country online sites

For example, U.S.-based consumers have options for recourse when buying from a U.S. based company, such as filing complaints with the Federal Trade Commission (FTC), Jewelers’ Vigilance Committee (JVC), Better Business Bureau (BBB), etc., or pursuing a legal case in civil court. Websites that do not have a physical presence in your home country may be insulated from recourse and attempts to recover funds can be frustrating.

9. Get the diamond appraised

Once your beautiful diamond is in-hand, have an independent appraiser confirm that it matches the seller’s description and accompanying paperwork. The appraiser will also provide you with the value of the diamond for insurance purposes.

10. View the diamond in person

The convenience of online shopping can’t be beat if you’re researching your options and trying to narrow your choices. Be aware that diamonds that appear to be almost identical on a grading report − same color, clarity or cut grades − may look different from each other when viewed in person. Ultimately, your decision is a personal one, so seeing the diamond with your own eyes is the best way to determine if it’s right for you. So look for online sellers with retail stores and/or easy and flexible return policies.

The vast majority of online diamond purchases go smoothly. Follow the recommendations above to greatly increase your chances for a stress-free and secure online diamond purchase.

For more diamond buying tips, visit the GIA 4Cs Blog.