How to Buy Gemstones Online Without Getting Ripped Off

When it comes to buying gemstones, an increasing number of people prefer to take their search online. With the endless options and competitive prices available, it’s easy to see why shopping online for gemstones is a popular choice.

But as with any valuable purchase, there are pitfalls to avoid.

We talked to Pragnesh Parekh (Graduate Gemologist, Graduate Pearls, A.J.P) from Angara, a top diamond and gemstone retailer online, who gave us some expert advice on how to safely buy gemstone jewelry online and what to look out for.

So first things first, why should I buy gemstones online?

When shopping online, you can explore a wide variety of gemstones and jewelry designs, which your local jeweler may not be able to offer. Also, as online sellers save on operating costs, we are able to give you jewelry at a much cheaper price in comparison to brick and mortar stores.

Another benefit of online jewelry shopping is that you can compare prices from multiple jewelers and make sure that you get the best value for your money. What makes it even better is that you can do all this at your convenience – be it at home, while on the move or just about anywhere.

What should I be aware of when buying gemstones?

Knowing who you are buying from and making sure that the seller is trustworthy is really important. Reading customer reviews will also give you a better insight into the quality of the jewelry/gemstones sold. In addition to this, don’t forget to go through the vendor’s return policies and check if the item comes with an authenticity report and relevant certification.

How do I know that a gemstone is genuine?

Man crafting jewelry

It can be quite difficult for a customer to just look at a gemstone and determine if it’s natural, lab-grown or a fake whether online or in store. However, a professional jeweler can easily detect the difference between the three.

Natural gemstones are gifts from nature, whereas lab-created gemstones are those that are created in controlled environments. Fake or imitation stones are usually made of plastic or glass. As natural gemstones are formed naturally, they usually have imperfections or inclusions. Lab created gemstones, on the other hand, will almost always be perfect. 

What should the retailer offer to help me make the purchase?

Clear images from multiple angles, 360-degree videos and in-depth product details will all help you to make an informed purchase decision. Online jewelers offering customization options go the extra mile to ensure 100% customer satisfaction.

The site should also be user-friendly and facilitate your experience with excellent customer service.

Do gemstones, like diamonds, come with a lab report?

Just like diamonds, colored gemstones that are certified by the GIA (Gemological Institute of America) come with GIA certification. Reputed jewelers like Angara also provide certificates of authenticity and third-party appraisals for both diamond and colored gemstone jewelry. This gives you the peace of mind of knowing that your gemstone is authentic and has value.

How does grading impact the value of a gemstone?

Gemstones, like diamonds, are also graded on the basis of color, clarity, cut and carat weight. The higher the grade of the gemstone, the higher its value will be.

Depending on your budget and the type of gemstone you’re looking for, you can decide on the level of quality for the gemstone.

Should I be able to return my gemstone if it doesn’t meet my expectations?

Yes, you should absolutely be able to return your gemstone jewelry if you are not completely happy with it.

You should only buy from jewelers that let you return the item for a full refund. The period for returns differs from vendor to vendor and can range approximately from 14 to 30 days.

What gemstones should I buy in 2022?

gemstone jewelry trends
Source: Angara

Sapphire is one gemstone every woman must own. Apart from this, tanzanite, aquamarine, garnet, topaz, amethyst, emerald, morganite and ruby are sure to steal the limelight. These gemstones have been trending for a while and with gemstone jewelry set to be a massive trend in 2022, it’s the perfect time to add some to your collection.

About Angara.com:

Founded by Ankur Daga, Angara is a US-based fine jewelry ecommerce retailer that specializes in customized diamond and colored gemstone jewelry. Ankur’s family has been in the fine gemstone business for generations and has deep roots in diamond and gemstone cutting, polishing and design.

They have primarily catered to larger retailers around the world, specializing in sapphires, rubies, emeralds, tanzanites, diamonds and other precious and semi-precious gemstones. In 2005, Ankur decided to bring their family heritage and jewelry directly to the public with the launch of Angara.com. To check out their extensive gemstone jewelry collections visit their website today.

Dani Rhys

Dani Rhys has worked as a writer and editor for over 15 years in the jewelry niche. She holds a Masters degree in Linguistics and Education. She has always been interested in expression through fashion and accessories, and her extensive experience in the field has made her a respected voice in jewelry trends and education. As the chief editor of Jewelry Shopping Guide, she not only leads the content strategy but also shares her insights through engaging articles. Her passion for storytelling is reflected in every piece she curates, exploring the intricate relationship between jewelry and personal identity.

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