Buying jewellery online: what to check
This guide helps you understand which criteria to compare before you buy a product. We do not claim to have tested any product, and the guide contains no price or stock information.
Checklist
- Check the metal and its hallmark: 925 for sterling silver, 14K/18K (585/750) for gold.
- Know whether it is solid, gold-plated or gold vermeil — plating wears off with daily use.
- For stones, ask whether they are natural, lab-grown or simulated, and for a certificate on diamonds.
- Measure your ring size or chain length at home with the store’s size guide before ordering.
- Check whether the piece is hypoallergenic or nickel-free if you have sensitive skin.
- Read the return policy carefully — engraved or resized pieces often cannot be returned.
- Compare insured shipping and customs costs for cross-border orders.
Before you head to the store
Confirm the exact model number, whether it can be delivered to your address, the final total price, shipping costs, the return period and the seller's reliability directly with the store. For cross-border purchases, taxes, customs and warranty terms may differ.