Virtual diamonds

[knuman]

I have read that most of the reputable online vendors appearing on PS sell virtual diamonds (irrespective of whether they have their own in-house diamonds) - eg Blue Nile, Union Diamond, James Allen, White Flash etc.

Does anyone know if it is standard policy for these vendors to bring in a diamond to inspect if a customer is inquiring about it? Or will they only do so if specifically requested by the customer? I worry that even if a diamond has good specs it might not perform as well in reality as on paper, so it would be good if they could actually cast their eye over the stone...

 

[Lorelei]

I know that Whiteflash, James Allen, Good Old Gold, Engagement Rings Direct will check out carefully a diamond they that was called in, with the other vendors you would have to ask, I have heard some don't, but maybe that has changed, you would need to check with them. It depends, there might be a charge in some cases for the vendors to bring in diamonds for you also. But you are very wise and to be insistent that a pro looks at a virtual diamond for you. I think you have to speak to each company as to what their policies are, it can depend too on how near they are to the cutting houses as to the cost and ease of calling in a particular diamond regarding shipping etc. In my opinion you need an expert eye cast upon each diamond before considering to purchase. Have you not found anything with an in house diamond?

 

[Regular Guy]

Date: 11/8/2006 2:02:46 AM
Author:knuman
I have read that most of the reputable online vendors appearing on PS sell virtual diamonds (irrespective of whether they have their own in-house diamonds) - eg Blue Nile, Union Diamond, James Allen, White Flash etc.

Does anyone know if it is standard policy for these vendors to bring in a diamond to inspect if a customer is inquiring about it? Or will they only do so if specifically requested by the customer? I worry that even if a diamond has good specs it might not perform as well in reality as on paper, so it would be good if they could actually cast their eye over the stone...

Of these you mention, mostly WF is active also on this board. Their statements on this board (from WF), and also on their website make it clear it is particularly their policy to do as you say.

Relatedly, based on at least third party statements, I understand that in the least of cases, James Allen will "at least" do as you say...and bring it in for review....again...at least if you ask. However, discussion of the location of the diamond is not otherwise referred to on their website, probably leading someone not mindful of even the possibility of virtual status to ask the question. Then again, probably, despite it being on their web site, WF probably doesn't provide verbal cues to its virtual buyers of EGL certified options that they are not upgradeable. JA doesn't offer these. It's always helpful to bring to the table whatever knowledge you do have.

I've no practical knowledge of practices really for BN or Union....except that with BN, again, there is no "pointing out" that their options are virtual. That is probably the pattern with most vendors where virtual options are their mainstay. Again, WF is differentiated from the others you've mentioned that way. Though, and just to be complete, GOG does actually do them, clearly differentiating them, too. But in text here, he's actually spoken of them, mentioning a concern about their quality, when he's sometimes brought them in.

 

[JohnQuixote]

Date: 11/8/2006 2:02:46 AM
Author:knuman
I have read that most of the reputable online vendors appearing on PS sell virtual diamonds (irrespective of whether they have their own in-house diamonds) - eg Blue Nile, Union Diamond, James Allen, White Flash etc.

Does anyone know if it is standard policy for these vendors to bring in a diamond to inspect if a customer is inquiring about it? Or will they only do so if specifically requested by the customer? I worry that even if a diamond has good specs it might not perform as well in reality as on paper, so it would be good if they could actually cast their eye over the stone...

Hi Knuman. We will not sell a diamond without first bringing it in for our own inspection and approval. Practices vary so it's best to ask each seller directly. Thanks for your interest.

Date: 11/8/2006 6:25:51 AM
Author: Regular Guy

Of these you mention, mostly WF is active also on this board. Their statements on this board (from WF), and also on their website make it clear it is particularly their policy to do as you say.

Relatedly, based on at least third party statements, I understand that in the least of cases, James Allen will 'at least' do as you say...and bring it in for review....again...at least if you ask. However, discussion of the location of the diamond is not otherwise referred to on their website, probably leading someone not mindful of even the possibility of virtual status to ask the question. Then again, probably, despite it being on their web site, WF probably doesn't provide verbal cues to its virtual buyers of EGL certified options that they are not upgradeable. JA doesn't offer these. It's always helpful to bring to the table whatever knowledge you do have.

I've no practical knowledge of practices really for BN or Union....except that with BN, again, there is no 'pointing out' that their options are virtual. That is probably the pattern with most vendors where virtual options are their mainstay. Again, WF is differentiated from the others you've mentioned that way. Though, and just to be complete, GOG does actually do them, clearly differentiating them, too. But in text here, he's actually spoken of them, mentioning a concern about their quality, when he's sometimes brought them in.

Thanks for covering so much ground. One correction: If a client asks us to bring in an EGL-graded diamond we certainly communicate, verbally, that it won’t be eligible for our buy-back & trade-up programs. It should also be outlined in the client’s specific order confirmation email before purchase. Ira, have you gone through the buying process with us?

 

[Regular Guy]

Date: 11/8/2006 6:25:51 AM
Author: Regular Guy

WF probably doesn''t provide verbal cues ...

my qualifier...sorry.

Will ya figure out a way to make stud type diamond earings viable for non-pierced ears? Meanwhile, no, I''ve not had the pleasure.