Before commissioning a ring from a jeweller you met online, check their registered business details, independent reviews, how they describe stones and reports, and their written terms for payment, returns and delivery. A trustworthy jeweller will be happy to answer questions and put everything in writing.
In short: check the business, read independent reviews, ask for grading reports, and get every term in writing before you pay.
Check the business
Look for a registered business name and address on the website. In the UK, companies can be checked on the public Companies House register. Check how long the business has traded and whether its contact details are consistent across its site and social media.
Read independent reviews
Look at reviews on independent platforms as well as the jeweller's own site. Read the detailed reviews, especially any that mention problems and how they were handled.
Photo: Anthony Shkraba via Pexels.
Ask about stones and reports
A trustworthy jeweller explains whether a diamond is natural or lab-grown, and which laboratory graded it. Ask for the report number and check it on the laboratory's website. Our guide to reading a diamond report may help.
Get terms in writing
Ask for written details of the design, metal, stone, size, timeline, payment stages, returns and delivery. Bespoke pieces often have different return terms from ready made jewellery, so check these before you commit.
Payment
Paying by credit card can offer extra protection in some countries. Be cautious of requests to pay by bank transfer to a personal account, or to pay the full amount before any design has been agreed. Ask for a receipt for every payment.
Talk to them
A video call is a good way to get a feel for a jeweller. Ask to see the workshop or stones on camera, and notice how clearly they answer questions. Our page on commissioning your ring remotely explains how a remote commission works.
Warning signs
Pressure to decide quickly, prices that change without explanation, vague answers about stones, or reluctance to put terms in writing are all reasons to pause.
Starting a commission
Our bespoke design page explains how a bespoke ring is designed, crafted by specialist goldsmiths.
Ask about aftercare
Ask what happens if the ring needs resizing, repair or cleaning in the future. A good jeweller will explain their aftercare and any warranty in writing, including how it works if you live in another country.
Check social media carefully
Photographs on social media can be borrowed from elsewhere. Ask for photographs or a video of your own stone, and look for consistent branding, a history of posts and genuine engagement from customers.
Natural or lab-grown descriptions
Check how the jeweller describes each stone. A lab-grown diamond should be clearly described as lab-grown, and a natural diamond as natural. Treatments, such as heating in sapphires, should be disclosed. Clear descriptions are a good sign of an honest business.
Ask for references
Some jewellers can share photographs of past commissions or put you in touch with previous clients. Seeing finished work, and hearing how a commission went, gives useful reassurance.
Keep records
Save every email, invoice, design approval and report. These help with insurance and with any question later. Keep them in one folder, along with photographs of the finished ring and a note of the date you received it.
Frequently asked questions
How do I check a jeweller is genuine?
Check their registered business details, independent reviews and written terms.
Should I ask for a grading report?
Yes, and check the report number on the laboratory's website.
Is it safe to pay by bank transfer?
Be cautious, especially to a personal account. Ask about protections before paying.