4 Tips for Buying Fine Jewelry Online
Stay home, stay safe…and let’s face it, stay online! Our computers, tablets and smartphones have always had a really important role to play in our modern professional and personal lives, but at this strange time, with social distancing and shelter-in-place rules in effect, they connect us to the outside world like never before. Your device is not only a perfect tool for video-chat, news-watching, tik-tokking, virtual-touring, and WFH-ing, but it also keeps you connected to your favorite stores.
Local business owners in your community miss you so much. In the meantime, remember that you can support them (and bring home something pretty) from the comfort and safety of your abode. When it comes to buying fine jewelry online, however, there are a few checkboxes you’ll want to investigate, that will offer peace of mind when purchasing a gift as special as an engagement ring, gold earrings, diamond jewelry, or even fresh Spring looks from your favorite designers. Ensure that when you shop for fine jewelry online, you’re shopping from a reputable source, with these tips.
Know your jeweler
Sure, we hope that it’s love at first sight with that gorgeous rose gold bangle, or the sweetest pendant necklace you’ve ever seen, but before pulling out the credit card, make sure that first you have a good grasp on the retailer’s values, experience, and credibility. You want to make sure that you’re getting both a fair price, and the best quality, from your purchase.
First, review the “About” tab on their website. This should offer the basics: who the company is, why they are in business, what they stand for. History about the company’s legacy might be available (transparency is always a good sign), leading up to the present day. Ask yourself some questions:
- Does learning about this company make me feel good about my potential purchase?
- Does their description convey confidence and experience?
- Do these business values match some of my own personal values?
You might be saying to yourself, “Now, can I skip this section? I know my jeweler! I’ve been shopping in their brick-and-mortar store for decades.” If this is the case, maybe you are ready to shop for jewelry online with total confidence. But this brings up another excellent point. An online business that also has a brick-and-mortar store (one or more) boosts the business’ credibility. Why?
- Brick-and-mortar suggests longevity of the business. In-store shopping came first!
- The resources required to support both brick-and-mortar and online business are substantial, which is a sign of commitment and success.
- The unparalleled opportunity for face-to-face experience offered by a brick-and-mortar location means that this business really loves its customers.
See if there is a “Store Locations” tab when you are considering buying jewelry online.
Finally, read up on customer reviews, whether that is via Yelp, Facebook, Google, or another search engine. Though reviews are all subjective, you can gain insight into a store’s credibility from what people remark on in terms of their shopping experience, product quality, and satisfaction. Note extra marks for friendly and knowledgeable customer service. Look for high ratings and five stars!
Dig into their stock
It’s likely that you end up on a webpage because you’re looking for something specific, like an engagement ring from Hearts on Fire, or a “gold link bracelet.” Or, potentially you’re browsing more broadly for diamond jewelry or wedding rings. Take a minute to observe the designer names, styles, and quality of materials used. Before making a premium designer jewelry purchase, take the smart step to find out whether the online business is an authorized dealer.
When shopping for fine jewelry online, it’s also a good idea to look for familiar designer name favorites, like David Yurman, Marco Bicego, Mikimoto, and IPPOLITA. A rich variety of designer offerings to suit many tastes and styles shows that this online business is committed to the diversity apparent in its clientele.
Understand the return policy
We know that a safety net is important. No one expects the “just in case” situation, but it’s good to be prepared…just in case. When buying jewelry online, look up the company’s return policy. It is good practice to have one, period. Read into whether they offer 10, 15, 30 or more days to decide whether you’re going to make a return. Find out if you’ll get your money back, or whether you’ll receive store credit or an exchange. Finally, understand if you’ll be able to get someone on the phone to discuss any issues or problems with your online purchase. When a phone number or direct e-mail is available, you can rest assured that you’ll be taken care of in the situation when you’re not totally happy with your purchase.
Find the truth
We all work hard for our money. The wisest spenders make sure that they support responsible retailers. Respect can be hard to earn, and we recommend reserving your trust for businesses that demonstrate key traits like: representing strong corporate responsibility values, including advocating for the environment, supporting equitable conditions for jewelry artisans, upholding a charitable tradition, and working with responsible jewelry councils.
Furthermore, at a longstanding premium jewelry business, you should expect premium and ethical leadership. At Lux Bond & Green, John and Marc Green have both held recognized positions on the Jewelers of America, Gemological Institute of America, Jewelers Security Alliance, Responsible Jewelry Council, and more. That is dedication that you can rely on.
Get shopping!
Here’s the fun part. Start filling up your cart with confidence that you’re shopping top quality jewelry, securely. Help is at the stroke of a keyboard, should you need it. We hope that you enjoy exploring Lux Bond & Green, online.