The short answer: a trustworthy overseas lab grown diamond seller states the origin of every stone, gives a report you can verify, uses insured tracked delivery, has a real contact and a track record, and puts its terms in writing. If a seller is vague on any of these, be cautious.
Buying from overseas can be a very good way to get a bespoke ring, but you cannot walk into the shop. That makes it important to check a seller before you pay. Here is a practical checklist.
The checklist
| Check | What good looks like |
|---|---|
| Origin | Every stone clearly described as lab grown or natural. |
| Report | An independent report with a number you can verify on the lab's website. |
| Contact | A real address, a named person and responsive communication. |
| Video | Willingness to show you the stone and the ring on video. |
| Terms | Delivery and returns terms in writing before you pay. |
| Delivery | Insured, tracked shipping. |
| Track record | Reviews and a history you can check. |
Red flags
- Pressure to pay quickly or by an unusual method.
- Prices far below everyone else, with no explanation.
- Reports that cannot be verified.
- No clear policy on problems.
- Vague wording about whether a stone is lab grown.
Verifying a report
Most grading laboratories let you check a report online by entering its number. The details shown should match the stone you are buying: shape, weight, measurements and grades. Many lab grown diamonds also carry a tiny laser inscription on the girdle with the report number, which a jeweller can show you under magnification or on video. If the numbers do not match, ask why before you go any further. See lab grown diamond reports compared.
Ask for what you need
A good seller will not mind answering questions. Ask about the report, the process, how the ring is checked and what happens if something is wrong. You should be able to get clear answers.
Check the design process
A bespoke ring should come with a design stage where you see a render and approve it before anything is made. If a seller starts making before you have approved the design, or cannot show you what the ring will look like, treat that as a warning. With us, nothing is made until you approve the design in writing.
Paying safely
Pay by a method that gives you a clear record, and keep copies of every invoice and message. Be wary of anyone who asks you to pay a personal account or to change payment details at the last minute. See paying a deposit safely online.
What we do
We describe every stone clearly, share the report, work by video consultation and send rings by insured, tracked FedEx. We put the details of the order in writing so you can read them before you commit.
Import costs and customs
Customs rules and taxes depend on your country, and you pay any import duty and tax that apply. The rules differ from place to place, so we explain what to expect for your country before you order.
Read more in what a lab grown diamond report must show, and browse lab grown colourless diamonds. Our standard making time is 5 to 6 weeks, which can vary with your location and how busy we are. Pieces start from £600.
Frequently asked questions
Is it safe to buy a ring from overseas? It can be, with the checks above and insured delivery.
Can I see the stone before I commit? Ask for video, and we offer this.
How do I check a report? Enter the report number on the laboratory's website and compare the details.
What if it arrives damaged? Ask any seller for the process in writing before you pay.
Who pays customs charges? You pay any duty and tax that apply, and we explain what to expect.