Where To Buy Diamond Jewelry?

When it comes to buying diamonds, choosing the right vendor is just as important as selecting the right diamond. In this article, we will discuss the various options for purchasing diamonds and provide insights on the pros and cons of each, so you can make an informed decision on where to buy your diamond.

Well-known Luxury Brands

For those with a larger budget, many well-known luxury brands offer high-quality diamonds that are guaranteed to be of exceptional quality. These brands often have a reputation for excellence and their diamonds can be a symbol of luxury and prestige. 

While these brands are renowned for their exceptional quality and craftsmanship, keep in mind that their prices can be significantly higher than those of other jewelry stores. If you’re working with a tighter budget, there are also reputable local jewelry stores that offer high-quality diamonds at more affordable prices.

Reputable Local Jewelry Stores

If you’re looking for a more budget-friendly option, reputable local jewelry stores can also be a great choice. These stores may offer more affordable prices while still providing quality diamond jewelry. It’s important to do your research and choose a store with a good reputation, as well as certifications and guarantees for their diamonds. Here are some tips to keep in mind when shopping for your dream diamond at local jewelry stores:

Check their reputation: Look for reviews or ask friends and family for recommendations on trusted local jewelry stores. Additionally, you can check if the store is a member of any reputable jewelry associations, such as the Jewelers of America or the American Gem Society.

Ask for certification: Request a diamond certification from a reputable gemological institute to ensure authenticity and quality.

Verify return policy: Verify the store’s return policy, in case you need to return or exchange the diamond.

Negotiate: Some local jewelry stores are usually more flexible in their pricing compared to big brands, so don’t hesitate to negotiate.

Choose a setting: Some local jewelers offer the option to customize the setting of the diamond, which can add a personal touch to the final product.

Maintain a relationship: Building a relationship with a local jewelry store can lead to future benefits, such as discounts, repairs, or upgrades.

Buying diamonds at reputable local jewelry stores can be a smart and cost-effective option. These stores may not have the same brand recognition as luxury brands, but they often have a strong reputation within their local communities and may offer more personalized service and attention to detail.

Online Retailers

In addition to physical stores, many people also choose to buy diamonds online. Online retailers often have lower overhead costs and can pass those savings onto the consumer. If you choose to buy diamonds online, ensure that the retailer has a good reputation and provides clear information on the diamond’s 4Cs (cut, color, clarity, and carat weight). 

Buying diamonds online can be a convenient option with access to a wide selection of diamonds at competitive prices. However, it’s important to do your research and choose a reputable online retailer with certifications and guarantees for their diamonds, as well as a clear return policy. It’s also recommended to view the diamond’s grading report and actual images or videos before making a purchase to ensure its quality.

Auction Houses

Buying diamonds at auction houses can be an exciting way to acquire rare and unique pieces. Auction houses like Christie’s and Sotheby’s have a reputation for offering high-quality diamond pieces, but prices can be steep due to the exclusivity of the items being sold. It’s important to have a budget in mind and to be aware of any additional fees, such as buyer’s premiums, that may be added to the final sale price. Other auction houses often have a wider range of diamonds that can be more affordable for buyers with smaller budgets are Phillips, Bonhams, Heritage Auctions, Skinner, Leslie Hindman Auctioneer. While the prices at these tier-2 auction houses may be more accessible, the quality and authenticity of the diamonds should still be thoroughly researched and verified before bidding.

Others 

In addition to the previously mentioned options, some other places to buy diamonds include:

Estate Sales: Estate sales offer a unique opportunity to find vintage and antique diamond jewelry at potentially lower prices. It’s crucial to request the diamond certificate before making a purchase. It’s advisable to consult with a gemologist to verify that the diamond you intend to buy matches the one in the certificate. You can also use a jewelry loupe to inspect the girdle for the inscription yourself if the diamond has been certified in recent years.

Diamond expos and trade shows: Some tradeshows are only open to industry professionals, such as diamond dealers, manufacturers, and wholesalers. However, there are also tradeshows including the JCK Las Vegas show and The Tucson Gem and Mineral Show that have some selected sections or shows open to the public, where consumers can browse and purchase diamonds and other jewelry directly from vendors. Although trade shows provide a vast collection of diamonds at competitive prices, there are also potential drawbacks. For instance, the vendor may not have a permanent location, making it difficult to track them down in case of issues with the purchase. Additionally,, buyers may have limited time to inspect the diamonds before making a decision. The process may also be overwhelming for inexperienced buyers to navigate the show, making it challenging to make informed purchasing decisions.

Pawn Shops: While not typically the first choice for diamond purchases, some pawn shops may have diamonds and diamond jewelry for sale at discounted prices. It’s important to ensure the shop is reputable and that the diamond is certified.

There are many options available for purchasing diamonds, each with their own pros and cons. It’s important to do thorough research, understand your budget, and consider your priorities before making a decision. Whether you choose to buy from a well-known brand, local jewelry store, reputable online retailer, auction house, or trade show, make sure to ask for certifications and guarantees, and consult with a gemologist if possible. With careful consideration and proper guidance, you can find the perfect diamond to fit your needs and budget.

Protect Your Investment

After purchasing a diamond, it’s important to consider insuring it. Accidents and theft can happen at any time, and it’s better to be prepared than to regret not having insurance. Here are some steps to take to insure your diamond:

Get an appraisal: Before you can insure your diamond, you need to know its value. Have a professional appraiser evaluate your diamond and provide you with a written appraisal. This appraisal should include the diamond’s carat weight, cut, clarity, color, and any other relevant information that affects its value.

Choose an insurance company: Not all insurance companies offer coverage for jewelry, so be sure to research and choose a reputable insurer that specializes in jewelry coverage. Look for a company with good customer reviews, a solid financial rating, and a policy that covers loss, theft, and damage.

Provide the appraisal to the insurance company: Once you’ve selected an insurance company, provide them with a copy of the written appraisal. This will help them determine the value of the diamond and the premium for coverage.

Choose the right policy: When it comes to insuring your diamond, there are two types of policies to consider: a scheduled policy or a blanket policy. A scheduled policy specifically lists each item of jewelry and its value, while a blanket policy covers all of your jewelry up to a certain value. Consider your needs and budget when choosing the right policy.

Keep the appraisal up to date: The value of your diamond can change over time, so it’s important to have it re-evaluated periodically and update your insurance policy accordingly.

Insuring your diamond can give you peace of mind knowing that you’re protected in case of loss, theft, or damage. Be sure to follow these steps and choose the right insurance policy for your needs.

La Jolla Gem Appraisal

Professional Jewelry Appraisal & Consultancy