So, the Internet age. Who doesn’t find it convenient, easy and satisfying to surf their way around, shopping for that bargain at a click of a button. The internet is incredibly helpful to compare prices, details, or retailers for choice.

However there are always limitations aren’t there? You need to try before you buy some things don’t you? At least if there is a chance of not getting the value you hoped for.
Too many people are gambling large amounts of hard earned money online for the diamond they were promised, only to find what was described on the Internet is not what they end up purchasing. A GIA Diamond certificate (Gemmological Institute of America) is a great tool and guide to have when choosing your diamond but not always as dependable when it comes to the physical look of a diamond. Not a metric “scale” but a guide as to how many inclusions are in a diamond, how white the stone is, is the stone hazy, how large the stone is from top view and most importantly is your diamond conflict free. All this commands the value of a diamond and no two diamonds are the same. With all this in mind it really doesn’t help that there are dishonest companies out there on the Internet.
The Internet is great for shopping in many ways, however purchasing a diamond online can be a proverbial mine field. Working in the jewellery industry for over 17 years, being a qualified Jeweller and Gemmologist I cannot recommend purchasing a diamond online no matter how biased my opinion may be. You really need to view the diamond physically, to be sure your stone will look as good as it sounds. Ultimately alongside an expert to get the good value for your money.
Would you know any different if your stone arrived looking like the picture above? Could you get your money back or even GST? If you’re promised an exchange how can you be sure you will get something better? The best colour grade of diamond is “D” and the best clarity is flawless however if this stone has a poor cut grade it could still resemble a piece of glass. Or a slightly lower grade stone can present impeccably when all aspects align correctly.
All I’m saying is in this, day and age of “self diagnosing” our medical issues using Google (yes we’ve all done this) you really need an expert and a stone in front of you before committing to a substantial purchase, that is if you want the best value for your money. After all “a diamond is forever”.