The Pros and Cons of Online Jewelry Shopping

People's concerns about buying jewelry online are understandable. After all, you wouldn't want to risk a lost or damaged shipment when that shipment contains something as important as your fiance's engagement ring or wedding anniversary present. There is also the possibility that the actual, physical piece of jewelry might not look the way you had expected it to when you were viewing it online.

However, one also has to stop and consider the benefits of online jewelry shopping. Online jewelers, by and large, have a wider selection of goods. Prices, as well, are usually a lot better when you buy online. Ultimately, the final decision is up to you, but here is a brief breakdown of the pros and cons of online jewelry shopping that might help you make up your mind.

Pros

Speed - Self-explanatory. No driving to the store, no driving back, no stopping for gas, etc. Select, place order, and buy with just a handful of clicks.

Convenience - By shopping online, you don't have to deal with traffic, crowds of shoppers, check-out lines, parking, or overbearing salespeople. Online you can shop from the comfort of home at your own pace and convenience.

Variety - Online jewelers can offer much bigger selections than retailers or catalog jewelers. Online you will find rare pieces that you won't come across anywhere else.

Pricing - Online retailers have much fewer overhead costs than conventional stores, which means their savings get passed on to you.

Information - If, while shopping online, you come across anything you don't understand (say, why are colored diamonds more expensive than white diamonds?) you can simply look it up! Even if you don't decide to buy online, you can still use the internet to do most of the legwork involved in deciding what kind of necklace, ring, or bracelet to get your loved one.

Cons

Human interaction - Yes, salespeople can be annoying. But what if you have a question and want to talk to an actual person about it? A traditional jewelry store can provide you with one-on-one, friendly customer service, which online stores simply cannot do. Your best bet online is to look for retailers that have customer service phone line you can call.

Shipment problems - Though it happens rarely, the possibility of a shipment getting lost or damaged is always there. Make sure that the online retailer you shop from has a policy that covers lost or damaged shipments.

Security Issues - Many people are reluctant to shop online because they're afraid of their personal and financial information being intercepted and used for fraudulent purposes. While this is still a valid concern, internet security has come a long way. Every legitimate online retailer will work with the latest security software so that all your important information is encrypted and kept secure. Review online retailer's privacy policy before you decide to make a purchase through them.

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