10 THINGS YOU NEED TO KNOW WHEN BUYING GEMSTONES ONLINE

Precious stones include diamonds, emeralds, rubies, sapphires etc. These stones are considered precious due to their rarity, durability, and high value.

Semi-precious stones are typically less expensive than precious stones but are still valuable and beautiful. Examples of semi-precious stones include amethyst, aquamarine, citrine, garnet, topaz etc.

Organic gems are derived from natural materials like plants or animals. Examples include amber, coral, pearl, and jade. It's important to note that organic gems are often treated to enhance their appearance, so be sure to check for any treatments before making a purchase.

Some stones are created in the laboratory which is called lab-grown stones. These stones are made by humans instead of mined from the earth.

Knowing the different types of gemstones will help you determine which ones are best suited for your needs and budget. Don't be afraid to do some research and learn more about the different gemstones before making a purchase.

3) LOOK FOR CERTIFICATION

When it comes to purchasing gems online, it is important to look for gemstone certifications. Certifications indicate that a third-party organization has assessed the quality and authenticity of the gemstone.

Certifications ensure that you are purchasing a genuine gemstone and not a synthetic or imitation one. The most reputable certifications come from organizations such as GIA (Gemological Institute of America) and AGS (American Gem Society).

Certifications also provide information about the quality of the gemstone, including its cut, clarity, color, and carat weight. This information can help you determine if the gemstone is worth the asking price.

However, keep in mind that not all certifications are equal. Some sellers may offer their own certificates, which may not be as reputable as those from independent organizations. Be sure to research the gem certification and the organization behind it before making a purchase.

4) CHECK FOR TREATMENT

Gemstones are often treated to improve their color or clarity, but this can also affect their value. It’s important to know whether the gemstone you’re buying has undergone any treatment and if so, what kind of treatment. Some treatments may be acceptable, but others can be misleading or fraudulent.

Some treatments can be difficult to detect, so it’s important to have a gemstone certified by a reputable laboratory. Some common treatments include heating, irradiation, and filling. Heating is often used to improve color or clarity in gemstones like sapphires and rubies, while irradiation can create vivid colors in diamonds. Filling involves using a substance to fill in cracks or cavities in the gemstone to improve clarity.

While some treatments can enhance the appearance of a gemstone, they can also reduce its value. Treatments like coating or dying are considered fraudulent and can be difficult to detect without a certification. Be wary of gemstones with very low prices, as they may have undergone an unsavory treatment or may not be genuine.

If you’re unsure about a gemstone’s treatment, consult with a reputable gemologist or jeweler. They can help you determine whether the gemstone is worth purchasing or not. Knowing whether a gemstone has undergone treatment can help you make an informed decision when buying online.

5) CONSIDER CUT, COLOR, CLARITY, AND CARAT

When buying gemstones online, it is important to consider the four Cs: Cut, Color, Clarity, and Carat. These four factors play a major role in determining the overall value of the gemstone.

• Cut refers to the shape and angles of the gemstone. A well-cut gemstone will have good proportions and symmetry, allowing it to reflect light and shine brilliantly. On the other hand, a poorly cut gemstone will not reflect light well and will appear dull.

• Clarity refers to the presence or absence of inclusions and blemishes in the gemstone. The fewer inclusions and blemishes a gemstone has, the higher its clarity grade will be. A higher clarity grade will make the gemstone appear clearer and more brilliant.

• Carat refers to the weight of the gemstone. Generally the higher the carat weight, the more valuable the gemstone. However, carat weight alone does not determine the value of the gemstone. A smaller gemstone with higher cut and clarity grades can be more valuable than a larger gemstone with lower cut and clarity grades.

• Color refers to the hue, tone, and saturation of the gemstone. Color is highly subjective and can vary depending on personal preference. However, there are some objective color grading scales for specific gemstones. So it’s too important to know the actual color of a gem.

When buying gemstones online, it is important to read the product descriptions carefully and pay attention to the cut, color, clarity, and carat information provided. You should also look for close-up photographs of the gemstone to get a better idea of its quality. A reputable seller will provide all the necessary information to help you make an informed decision.

6) LOOK FOR REVIEWS AND FEEDBACK

One of the most important things to consider before buying gemstones online is to check the reviews and feedback of the seller. It's essential to do some research and read customer reviews to know if the seller is trustworthy. Reading reviews from past customers is an excellent way to get an idea of the seller's reputation, the quality of products, and the level of customer service they offer. If you find many positive reviews, it's an excellent indication that the seller is reliable. If you come across a few negative reviews, make sure to read them carefully to understand the issue. You can find reviews and feedback on various platforms, including the seller's website, and social media pages.

7) BE AWARE OF THE PRICING

When buying gemstones online, it's important to be aware of pricing. While you want to make sure you're getting a good deal, it's also important to remember that quality gemstones come at a price. Be wary of prices that seem too good to be true as they may indicate low quality or synthetic stones. Keep in mind that prices can vary depending on factors such as the rarity of the stone, its cut, color, clarity, and carat weight. Don't be afraid to ask questions about pricing.

Some online retailers may offer discounts or promotions that can help bring down the cost. You may also want to compare prices between different sellers to ensure you're getting a fair deal. However, be careful of overly inflated prices. Some sellers may try to pass off low-quality or synthetic stones as high-quality gems and charge a premium for them. This is why it's important to research the market value and look for reputable sellers who have a history of selling high-quality gemstones. Ultimately, the key is to find a balance between quality and pricing. You want to ensure you're getting good value for your money without sacrificing the quality of the gemstone. By being aware of pricing and doing your research, you can make an informed decision when buying gemstones online.

8) CHECK THE RETURN POLICY

When purchasing gemstones online, it’s important to understand the return policy of the seller. What if the gemstone isn't what you expected? What if it arrives damaged? What if it simply doesn't meet your standards? These are all valid concerns, and a clear return policy can ease your mind before making a purchase. Before buying gemstones online, be sure to check the return policy of the seller. Is it clear and straightforward? Will they accept returns within a certain time frame? Are there any specific conditions that must be met for a return to be accepted? Don't assume that all sellers have the same return policies – they can vary widely. It's also worth noting that some sellers may not accept returns at all. This is especially common for gemstones that have been customized or altered in some way.

Before purchasing, make sure you understand the seller's return policy and any limitations that may apply. This will help you make an informed decision and avoid disappointment down the road. Some sellers may charge restocking fees or have other conditions that may impact your ability to return a gemstone. By being diligent and reading the return policy carefully, you can ensure that you have a positive online shopping experience and can make the most of your gemstone purchase.

9) BEWARE OF ONLINE SCAMS

The internet has made shopping for gemstones easier than ever before, but it has also made it easier for scammers to take advantage of unsuspecting buyers. When shopping for gemstones online, it is essential to keep an eye out for any red flags that may indicate a scam. Here are some tips to help you avoid online scams:

• Avoid deals that seem too good to be true: Gemstones are precious, and their prices reflect that. If you come across a seller offering gems at a price that seems too good to be true, chances are it probably is.

• Watch out for fake gemstones: Scammers may sell fake or imitation gemstones, which look like the real thing but are of poor quality. Research the gemstone you want to buy and learn about its characteristics to spot a fake.

• Beware of counterfeit certifications: Some sellers may provide fake certificates to make their gems seem more valuable. Check that the certification comes from a reputable lab and matches the gemstone.

• Use secure payment methods: Avoid using wire transfers or money orders, as these are difficult to trace and may lead to fraud. Use a secure payment method like PayPal, which offers protection for buyers.

By keeping these tips in mind, you can avoid online scams and safely buy gemstones online. Remember, always take your time and research the seller and gemstone thoroughly before making a purchase.

10) UNDERSTAND SHIPPING AND DELIVERY

Before purchasing gemstones online, it is important to understand the shipping and delivery process. Make sure to check the shipping options available, including the estimated delivery time and any additional costs associated with the shipping method. Consider tracking your package so you can be sure that it arrives safely and on time. Some sellers may even offer free shipping, which can save you money in the long run. By understanding the shipping and delivery process, you can ensure a smooth and hassle-free transaction.

Buying gemstones online can be a great experience if you do your research and make informed decisions. By following these tips and guidelines, you can have a safe and enjoyable experience buying gemstones online.

At GemsBiz, you can rest assured that you will find high-quality natural gemstones at wholesale prices. We offer an extensive collection of high-quality gemstones, ranging from rubies, emeralds, sapphires, diamonds, and many more. At GemsBiz, we understand the value of authenticity, which is why we only sell natural and certified gemstones.

Our secure and easy-to-use platform makes it easy to buy gemstones online without any hassle. Plus, our efficient shipping and delivery options will ensure that your gemstones arrive at your doorstep in no time. If you want to buy natural gemstones online, browse our collection of gemstones you won't be disappointed!