10 golden rules to protect you when buying jewelry online or in-store. Avoid unpleasant surprises and invest with confidence.
10 Golden Rules
1. Never Buy Without a Certificate
Every diamond over 0.30 carats must come with a certificate from an independent laboratory such as GIA, HRD, or IGI. A seller's own "assessment" or "in-house certificate" is not a substitute for independent verification.
2. Check the Laser Inscription
Most GIA and HRD certified stones have the certificate number laser-inscribed on the girdle (the thin edge around the middle of the stone). Look it up on GIA.edu or HRDantwerp.com.
3. Verify the Metal Hallmark
Jewelry sold as 14K, 18K, 22K, or platinum must carry a hallmark. Look for "585" for 14K, "750" for 18K, and "950" or "PT950" for platinum.
4. Read the Return Policy
A reputable seller offers at least a 14-day unconditional return policy. At Pırlanta Ustası, we offer 14-day hassle-free returns with free return shipping.
5. Interpret Images Realistically
Online photos can be misleading: macro lenses make stones look larger than they are, and studio lighting exaggerates brilliance. Ask for a video — natural light video is far more realistic.
6. Ask About Total Carat Weight vs. Center Stone Weight
"Diamond weight" and "total gem weight" are different things. Total Weight (TW) of smaller accent stones can be misleading; what matters most is the carat weight of the center stone.
7. Insure Your Jewelry
Add high-value diamond jewelry to your home insurance as a rider, or take out a standalone jewelry insurance policy. You'll regret it if you don't in the event of loss or theft.
8. Check Reviews
Read the seller's Google, Trustpilot, or social media reviews. Real customer feedback gives you the most honest picture of any retailer.
9. Be Skeptical of Prices That Seem Too Low
If the price seems remarkably attractive, ask why. Is a diamond priced far below market value because of quality differences, fraud, or an illegitimate source?
10. Seek an Independent Appraisal for Large Purchases
Before a major purchase, you can consult an independent appraiser. Some jewelers offer this service for a fee. If you have doubts, this cost is well worth it.
The Pırlanta Ustası Guarantee
For every piece we sell, we commit to:
- GIA or HRD certification
- Metal hallmark guarantee
- 14-day unconditional returns
- Transparent pricing
- Post-sale support
