Shopping online used to be just for small, inconsequential purchases. But with improvements in security, e-commerce web design, and shipping, consumers are more comfortable buying just about anything online. Even luxury purchases can be made online without worry.
There are now thousands of jewelers and jewelry designers selling online. But how do you know who you can trust? Here are a few things you should look for when browsing an online jeweler’s website.
Time in Business
First of all, look at how long the company has been in business. While a new business certainly can create great products and give great service, a jeweler that has been in business for a decade or more has a clear record of sales, quality products, and satisfied customers behind it.
Communication
Drop them a line. How long does it take to respond? A quick response time means the business knows the value of your time. They know you are eagerly waiting for an answer, and you deserve to receive one quickly to put your mind at ease. Furthermore, the business should have multiple ways of getting in touch. A business that offers phone, email, text or chat, and social media accounts shows that they have the customer in mind, allowing them to choose their preferred method or social media platform for communication. Businesses don’t have to offer every single one of these, but of the ones they do offer, response time should be fast.
Responses should not only be fast but should be professional and courteous, as well. Every piece we craft is a unique treasure, and so is every customer.
Price
We’re all looking for the best value, but when it comes to luxury jewelry, a price that seems too good to be true should have you asking questions. When you have a master of their craft working with precious metals and real gemstones, the price is going to reflect that. While you never want to pay too much, you should be a little suspicious of prices that seem too low. Suspiciously low prices are often accompanied by vague product descriptions that seem to be hiding the fact that they are selling something gold-plated rather than solid gold, for instance.
Support
What else is the jeweler offering? Most jewelry stores offer affordable repair options to their customers. You should also be able to count on a reasonable return policy and extras like care and cleaning guides. Is your online jeweler doing the same? Compare the policies and extras of a number of online jewelers to get a sense of the industry standard.
That last point also works as general advice. Compare different online jewelers. You’ll get a good sense of the quality of each, the style and selection of each, and the customer service of each. Once you see what the standard is, we hope you’ll see that we go beyond it.
