A Guide to Buying Diamonds in the UK

When buying a luxury item, such as a diamond — particularly for re-selling purposes — it is vital that you choose a reputable, trustworthy seller to ensure you are paying the right price and getting the right quality.

In this article, we will cover the following topics to ensure you make the right choice when buying diamonds online or in-store in the UK:

• What to look out for when buying diamonds

• Is buying diamonds online in the UK a good idea?

• Do I need to buy a certified diamond?

No matter where you buy your diamonds from (online or in-store), there are certain things you need to keep in mind to ensure you get the most for your money:

• The 4 Cs. The 4 Cs are cut, clarity, colour and carat, and together they indicate the quality and beauty of a diamond. Choose a diamond seller that provides an independent grading report, like those provided by GIA, as this report offers an unbiased analysis of the diamond’s 4 Cs.

• Learn about the company. Buying from a reputable seller is not something you want to leave up to chance. Make sure you learn about the company beforehand. For instance, you will need to know details such as how long the company has been operating, does it offer secure transactions, where the company is located and any recent reviews.

You can buy almost anything online nowadays. Why should diamonds be any different? In fact, buying diamonds online has its own advantages:

1. It is hassle-free

The greatest luxury with buying diamonds online is how fast it is. You make your choice, fill in your details and place your order with just a few clicks. Everything can be done at home and at a time that suits you best. You can even view the diamonds through a video call if you wish.

2. The collection is extensive

Buyers are spoilt for choice online. For instance, BNT Diamonds has an extensive collection of loose diamonds to choose from. It’s unlikely you will find the same range in a brick and mortar shop.

3. It is cost-effective

Buying online is often more affordable than buying in a shop, as there is no need for intermediaries. Moreover, by buying online, you can shop around and find the best deal for your budget with ease. It is difficult to shop around in physical stores because, unless you live in the heart of the ‘diamond district’ in Antwerp, there are not many diamond sellers clustered close together.

You do not need to do anything — but it is highly recommended that you buy a diamond that comes with its own certificate. The certificate will not just guarantee the quality of your investment diamond, but it will also add a level of reassurance to the person who will ultimately buy the diamond from you. In other words, a certified diamond will be easier to sell in the future.

GIA, HRD and IGI are the three most renowned independent organizations that assess and certify diamonds. Always ask for a certificate from one of these institutions to ensure you are buying quality and ethically sourced diamonds.

Are you interested in buying diamonds as a value investment, at a very attractive price? The experts at BNT Diamonds will be happy to advise you. Contact us by email or call our team directly on +32 3 201 24 90.