You can buy almost anything online, but should you buy fine jewellery or watches on the internet? Online shopping is a common experience in today’s world, but it can still feel risky when purchasing something sentimental and expensive. Simultaneously, when you shop online versus traditional brick-and-mortar storefronts, you have a wider selection and often much more competitive pricing.
Whether you’re looking for a gift, an engagement ring, or something for yourself, you should always be confident in your purchase. Continue reading for our five most important tips on what to look for when buying fine jewellery online.
1. Do Your Research
Before you begin the checkout process, be certain that you are purchasing from a reputable company. Always read online reviews and double-check that the official review profiles link to the same website. To avoid any unpleasant surprises, you should also go over the jewellery listing and read every detail about the piece’s condition. An honest seller will provide honest answers to any questions you may have about the item and your potential purchase.
2. Read the Shipping & Return Policies
Before you make an online purchase, make sure you’ve thoroughly researched the seller’s shipping and return policies. If you are purchasing an expensive piece of jewellery, make sure the shipping is insured for the full value of the item. You should also ensure that you fully understand the return policy. A website may offer returns on the majority of their items, but certain items, such as new or never worn items, may be exempt from this policy. This information should always be clearly displayed on the piece’s listing.
3. Look for an Appraisal or Certificate.
The jeweller or seller will provide an appraisal or valuation that details the value of your item. If you are purchasing an item containing precious gemstones, it should list diamond characteristics such as colour, cut, clarity, and carat weight. This document is useful if you want to ensure your piece or provide proof of ownership. It is also a document that clearly lists the materials and specifications of your piece for your own records. Every piece of Elwatches comes with a free appraisal.
4. Recognize the Warranty
Find out if the piece you’re thinking about buying comes with a warranty from the manufacturer or from the seller/vendor. When purchasing jewellery online, this warranty should cover any defects and loose gemstones for at least a year. If this is not provided, you may be held liable for any repairs that were beyond your control. All jewellery at Elwatches is covered by a five-year warranty in the unlikely event that your piece has a flaw or a stone comes loose.
5. Determine Your Size & Size Availability
Understanding your size is essential, especially when shopping for rings. You should first understand the sizing used in the jewellery listing. Rings can be measured in a variety of ways, including US sizing, European sizing, millimetres, inches, and many others. Before you buy, make sure you understand the listing’s exact measurement standards.
If you don’t know your ring size by any measurement standard, you can always go to a local jeweller and have them size your finger.
If you know your size but are having difficulty finding the right piece in your size, you can have a piece resized at your local jeweller.