How would you reassure a first time buyer to purchase online?

[nala]

My sister is in the market. 15 k
Budget. But refuses to purchase online. Says her husband doesn’t want to bc it makes him nervous.
The problem with b and m jewelers is that they don’t listen. Refuse to admit super ideal is a thing. They try to push egl. Etc etc. they don’t listen. They are very limited to their stock and want to sway her with “good deals.”
Any suggestions to ease their nervousness? I don’t even know if I feel comfortable encouraging them bc God forbid they have an unforeseen experience. But thought I’d reach out to you all.

 

[Rfisher]

Airfare and hotel to vendor of your choice.

 

[XHellfireX]

Airfare and hotel to vendor of your choice.

+1, but on a more serious note there is a significant price difference buying online vs. in store

 

[the_mother_thing]

Lead the horse/s to water ... have one/both of them join PS and read testimonials and learn ... but ultimately, it’s their money/decision. There may be other factors that - family or not - they just don’t want to disclose to anyone else.

 

[jp201845]

I was the same way when I realized your options are very limited when dealing with a B & M store. I took a leap of faith looking online and what a huge difference with options. You get way better quality and cheaper prices. There is no risk if you deal with recommend vendors on PS and preferably pay by CC for added protection. ...reputation is everything in the jewelry business.

 

[mcosme]

I'm guessing they're based in the US? To be honest, with such a good return policy at most vendors... online shopping is the best! Or find a vendor nearby that's trusted

 

[kenny]

Explain your experience.

 

[sledge]

I would start by asking her husband what exactly makes him nervous.

I know that may sound obvious, but once you better understand what makes him tick then you can create a plan for easing those concerns.

 

[missy]

All you can do is share from the heart and explain why you think it is safe and a good idea. Share your experience with online diamond purchasing. But that is all you can do.

When my sister got engaged her FI purchased a diamond ring from Tiffany. They are not rich and he had a modest sum to spend and he chose to spend it at Tiffany vs purchasing a better bigger diamond online and I could have helped. But he had his mind made up so I didn't push. There is only so much you can do and the decision is the couple's decision. All you can do is share and then it is up to them.

And I might say hey if you want to take some time why don't you read some threads on PS and let them do some research and see what conclusions they draw.

 

[whatamilookingat]

Go with her to the jewelry stores she's considering and compare your diamonds to their products so she can see the difference in quality. She can make her choice from there, and you'll know you did what you could to help.

 

[Snowdrop13]

What is she looking for? Does she know- your other thread had her looking at old cuts, I think? I‘d just point out some online diamonds in her price range to her and make sure she knows what’s available.

 

[denverappraiser]

Seek out an independent appraiser who is not the seller (or working for them) and not a competitor. There's a list at the top of the page under 'Resources'.

 

[sledge]

Seek out an independent appraiser who is not the seller (or working for them) and not a competitor. There's a list at the top of the page under 'Resources'.

This is a wise move, regardless if buying locally or via the internet. Sadly, most consumers don't know enough about diamonds to make a solid decision without some guidance.