What is a festival without a touch of some jewelry purchase? Customers now have the option of buying their ornamental purchases in both online and physical stores. However, amid the malpractices of selling impure metals, especially in the purchase of gold, consumers need to be alert, especially when billing their items online.
Purchasing high-value items like jewelry through an online platform demands careful research and scrutiny to avoid disappointment and ensure a safe transaction. If you are thinking about purchasing jewelry online, here are the most important considerations to keep in mind:
1. Check Authenticity and Certification
The first act of vigilance is to ensure the authenticity of the jewelry you are purchasing.
Says, Mahendra Luniya, Digital Gold Expert, Chairman, Vighnaharta Gold Ltd., “In India, it is sure that the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS ), ascertains the purity of gold and certified diamonds by coming up with the Gemological Institute of America (GIA) or the International Gemological Institute (IGI) grading reports.” You should look for products with reputable certifications, such as those from the BIS for gold and IGI for diamonds. These certifications confirm the metal purity and gemstone quality, respectively, offering reassurance that the jewelry you are buying meets the established standards.
“It also depends on the jeweler one is buying from. Reputed jewelers with clear customer reviews are a good choice, and authenticity certificates are important, which would guarantee the purity of the metal and the quality of the gemstone,” says Luniya.
Tip: Established online jewelers typically display certifications on their website. You can look for specific logos, and verify them with the certifying body’s website if possible.
2. Watch Out For Hidden Costs
“You need to keep your eyes open as most online shopping involves other unrevealed charges, like shipping fees, insurance charges, and return charges,” advises Luniya.
The receipt related to these extra charges ought to be read with care as free delivery may be promoted, but high insurance fees may apply to items such as jewelry. He adds, “Buyers should read through terms regarding returns and exchanges for the reason that strict conditions may make it impossible to address any issue.”
3. Be Wary Of Bumper Discounts
Since jewelry purchases are sensitive, you can undertake a price comparison with physical stores or other online jewelers before buying. While online retailers have lower overhead costs and may offer discounts, prices that appear drastically lower than usual could be a red flag.
Says Luniya, “Sometimes, festive offers are deceptive. Always watch for terms such as "up to" discounts, which may apply only to certain items.”
Tip: Look out for a "no return" policy that might be associated with low-quality goods
4. Check For Hallmarking and Gemstone Grading
Reiterates Luniya, “For gold, hallmarking by the Bureau of Indian Standards is an assured area; it is an assurance of the purity level guaranteed in the metal. In the case of diamonds, GIA or IGI certification is always desired to grade the quality and authenticity of the stones.”
You can look for hallmark stamps or certification from reliable authorities, like BIS for god and certified gemologists for diamonds.
Tip: For gemstone purchases, seek grading reports detailing colour, clarity, cut, and carat to understand the quality of your purchase.
5. Research Brand Reputation
The allure of online jewelry shopping often includes the appeal of deals from both big brands as well as smaller or emerging ones. Before you make any purchase, take the time to read customer reviews, check their social media profiles, and scan consumer protection sites for any red flags.
Tip: If there are no customer reviews on the website or any engagement on their social handles, the legitimacy is in question. Take a peer review on the matters of delivery items, product quality, customer service, etc. to see if you can trust the brand.
Due to high demand during Dhanteras and Diwali, delivery timelines can vary for your purchases. Make sure you check the shipping options, and how safe they are. Additionally, avoid any last-minute shopping since it can cloud your judgment during such an important purchase.
