What to Know Before Buying Jewelry Online

Shopping online has become easier this year in the face of a global pandemic.

That includes jewelry.

While purchasing online can be convenient, it’s important to know what you are purchasing. That’s especially true when it comes to jewelry.

In recent months we’ve seen an increase in people coming into our store, looking for services or guidance, after making jewelry purchases online. 

Here are some of the things they’re surprised to find out:

They Didn’t Get a Real Diamond

That’s right. We’ve seen clients come in thinking they had purchased a diamond engagement ring, only to learn they do not have a genuine stone.

In most cases these customers did not understand the terminology surrounding their purchase.

“Semi-mount” is one term that can be confusing when buying online. In the case of a diamond engagement ring, for example, a “semi-mount” means you are purchasing the metal and small side stones, but a main center stone is not included.  If there is a diamond center stone shown, it is likely a cubic zirconia, or a diamond simulant. 

As such, it may look like you’re getting a huge deal, when in reality, you are not buying the most important part of your engagement ring.

The Diamond They Bought is Lower Quality than Expected

Diamond grading is quite elaborate, making direct comparisons between stones tricky.

Take “Cut,” for example, one of the famous “Four Cs.”

That might seem like one of the easier grading characteristics to understand and compare online, but in reality, it’s complex. A stone’s symmetry and its florescence are both rarely readily disclosed online. A stone with poor symmetry won’t sparkle as much as a stone with excellent symmetry, and a stone with florescence can show tints of blue.

So, while you might think it’s easy to compare diamonds based on just carat weight, and say color or clarity, it’s not nearly that simple.

That’s why we suggest you speak with one of our specialists, who can work with you face to face to explain all of these intricacies. 

Ring Sizing Takes A Month

We’ve had numerous couples come in with engagement rings they have purchased online.

As is quite common, some of these rings need to be sized after being presented. Unfortunately, many online operations take up to a month to complete that sizing.

Our expert Goldsmiths, by contrast, can typically complete that work within a matter of days.

These are just a few things you should consider before buying a piece of fine jewelry online, from an unfamiliar source.

Here at Hingham Jewelers, a family-owned business serving the South Shore for more than 70 years, we pride ourselves on providing expert service that an online jeweler can’t compete with.

We are happy to answer any questions you have, so you’re happy with your purchase for years to come. And if convenience is what’s driving you online, remember that our entire inventory can be found right here on our website, with 24/7 text support.

We look forward to showing you why we’re not your average jewelry store!