Buying online vs. B&M- is it ok to request an online stone?

[bigbg25]

Hey All!
So I have been looking into Blue Nile. From my research, they seem reputable- the only issue being buying the stone without anyone reviewing it first. Because of this, I have contacted a B & M store who handled my best friends engagement and bands. They were a family friend of his so I know they are reputable and may give me a small break. I am going this route so I can actually have someone review the stones for me and let me know whether or not it's "eye clean."

I'm looking for a squarish cushion or round in the SI range- trying to maximize size(1.5-1.75)
*Is it ok for me to use the search function and request they investigate the findings? (I've already been told they have access to everything Blue nile does.) I certainly don't want to offend anyone who is specialized in their trade. I'm pretty anal and research everything to a "T" before buying so I'm probably not the average customer just looking for that "right" ring.

Any advice, helpful hints or comments are welcomed.
thanks in advance!!
B

 

[therese13]

Re: Buying online vs. B&M- is it ok to request an online sto

To answer your question, no, I do not think it is rude or unprecedented to have someone other than the vendor take a look at a stone. It's all public knowledge anyway. I doubt, however, that your friend will be able to do more than analyze the diamond report - which is kind of helpful, but will not give you the full picture. They will not have access to physically look at the stone. If I were you, I'd recommend that you take a look at james allen, white flash, good old gold, brian gavin diamonds, or Ritani, and find one that you can see yourself before you purchase.

Also, cushion cut stones are very difficult to analyze without pictures. They come in all different flavors of looks - from "crushed ice" to nice facet structures. It's important to see the diamond first.