Buying loose diamond..opinion on buying setting BM vs online

You can return everything during the return period, specified by the vendor, for full refund.

Just check out the specific vendor return policy in advance. If there's a specific setting that you like, you could go to a local store to see the setting or a similar one before you commit to having your stone set.

I've done both. I bought a loose stone once and had it set locally with no issues. I've also purchased a loose stone and had it set in a temporary setting by the vendor. If I were looking for a permanent setting the first time I'd definitely check things out locally first, then go through the diamond vendor for the setting if they carry that line or something very similar that you'd be ok with. Plus if you have the original vendor of the stone set it, it will be covered by insurance if something happens. If you purchase and then have it set locally, most places will not insure stones you didn't purchase from them originally. In which case it may be worth insuring the stone before it is set locally. Jewelers Mutual covers the setting process I believe.

So much easier to buy the setting from the diamond vendor. GOG carries sooo many brands of settings plus some of their own that are reasonably priced, that I would certainly try to get it from them. Then they cover the diamond while being set and you get the finished ring ready to be insured.

One other thing. B&M stores are generally not happy with people buying diamonds online, so it is a little uncomfortable having to take a diamond to a B&M store when you bought it elsewhere.

I just recently bought my diamond from GOG and Sarah (GOG) was then able to find me a great setting for it that they are having their in house jewlers put pave diamonds on the band. I cannot wait to see the finished product, which should be ready next week. So i cannot recommend GOG enough for finding your diamond and setting.