ebay for your e-ring?

TPF may earn a commission from merchant affiliate
links, including eBay, Amazon, and others

#4
Well, I guess it is like other online shopping. You'd really need to know what you were looking for, as far as cut, clarity, color. I'd also pay attention to the certification of the stones, if any, b/c some labs are more reliable than others. A good return period, w/ sufficient time to have the ring evaluated and I'd say no to a re-stock fee, esp. if it was not what it was alleged to be. Also, some ebay stores are actually stores in the diamond district in NYC- I'd check the id and google online and buy from the actual store/person, rather than on ebay first. The policies might be better and you can get more info.
 
#7
our budget isn't huge. 7k max. not to say that that wouldn't be a load of money to use, but when you think about it, we spend that much through bags sometimes in the matter of two months, so it's sort of the same thing. if i feel comfortable spending 2k online, i should be comfortable with 7k as i'm running the same risks.

i noticed that yes, many of the ebay stores are actual stores in ny's diamond district. does anyone have any experience buying a diamond from an ebay seller?

i know nothing about clarity/cut/color...i just know i want an ascher or cushion cut stone with an art deco-inspired setting.

as far as labs, who is known to be the most efficient?

thanks again.
 
#8
I wouldn't. eBay has a lot of problems with jewelry vendors. The nature of the marketplace leaves loopholes for them... using photos that are not of the actual piece, fine print in the selling agreement that prevents full refunds, etc. etc.

Sure, you can score big time on eBay, but it's very risky. You're much more likely to be taken advantage of than not--especially since you said you know little of diamond grading. But then, I won't spend over $500 on eBay ever. To me, it's not worth the risk. Even more so with an engagement ring, I don't want to risk a messy transaction that will color my feelings toward such an important piece.

Take some time to educate yourself, OR tell us what you're looking for and we'll help you find it.

RE: grading labs, GIA is generally the most reliable. Many others have been known to over-grade.

ETA: Your budget can get you a very nice 1ct asscher and ~$1k for the setting, without risking eBay...
 
#9
I wouldn't use e-bay for such a purchase. There are many reputable online vendors who can help you find a beautiful diamond within your price range. You can either have them set it or get it set locally. Many of these vendors have an upgrade policy, as well. The labs I would consider are AGS and GIA. The vendor that Musey linked you to for the asscher can find you any shape you desire!
 
#11
make sure it has a AGS or GIA cert with it. DONT take nothing less! i got a ring from there that was EGL and ended up being a shallow cut marquise and just didnt look very nice. it was 140 included ship for a .29 14k J VS2
 
#12
thanks girls.

my bf is reluctant to buy on ebay, but i still feel it's OK as long as i do ample research beforehand. i am now finding out about online jewelers, and feel i can get a great deal through them as well.
 
#14
canada's said:
our budget isn't huge. 7k max.
Click to expand...

That's a fantastic budget!

I'd recommend whiteflash or goodoldgold (or other pricescope vendors) before I'd do a purchase from ebay.

I think if my DF didn't have a ring to trade-in/up from a brick & mortar store (he was engaged once before--they broke up long before i entered the pic!) I'd've had him buy me something from WF or GOG... as it is, i'm thinking of asking for studs or a solitaire necklace for a wedding or anniversary or "just becuase" present...LOL!
 
You must log in or register to reply here.
Top