In Part 1, we talked about the many reasons to buy jewelry online and how to educate yourself. This post focuses on things to look for when buying from an online jewelry retailer:
Customer Service: While shopping online means you don’t have to deal with anyone, you’ll want to be able to get any questions you might have answered. Does the retailer have a customer service option? Is there a telephone number or is it only available through chat or email? What are the hours customer service is available?
Shipping Information: If a retailer doesn’t ship expensive items via FedEx or other insured carrier, run, run away fast. You only want to deal with retailers who ship in a secured fashion and insure their shipments for the full value of their products. This is just common sense.
Return Policy: Be sure to read the retailer’s return policy thoroughly. How many days/weeks/months do you have to return something? What items don’t qualify for returning? Is there a restocking fee? If there isn’t a return policy posted, move on to the next retailer.
Lost or Damaged Shipment Policy: If the retailer is already using an insured carrier, the loss experienced through a lost package or damaged product is covered. Reputable retailers will happily replace or refund for items that never arrive or show up in less-than-perfect condition due to shipping problems.
Transaction Security: Most online retailers recognize the need for security during the transaction process to prevent fraud. Be sure the site you’re buying from guarantees that all personal information will be encrypted.
Privacy Policy: Do take the time to review this document as well. It will outline how the retailer handles your personal information. While it’s common practice for retailers to “resell” your information to other companies, not all do this. If this is a concern for you, stick with retailers who don’t sell to third parties.
Have fun shopping!
