Tips to buy Colombian emeralds from a distance or online

Buying emeralds online can be an exciting experience, but it's also crucial to address the transaction with caution and knowledge. We know that buying through platforms can be a bit risky and when it comes to emeralds or gems even more precious.

That is why we have prepared some recommendations to ensure that your online emerald purchase is safe and satisfactory.

General recommendations

1. Preliminary Research: Before making any purchase, it is essential to investigate the emeralds and the different aspects that affect their quality, such as color, clarity, cutting and weight in carats. Get together with terms like Garden (internal inclusions) and facets (cut faces) to make informed decisions.
2. Seller reliability: Be sure to buy emeralds from a reliable and respectable seller. Look for feedback and reviews from other buyers, check the seller's reputation online and make sure they offer detailed information about their products.
3. Gemological Certification: Search emeralds that are accompanied by a gemological certificate issued by internationally recognized laboratories, such as GIA (Gemological Institute of America) or AGS (American Gem Society). These certificates provide details on the quality of the gem.
4. Returns policy: Before you buy, review the seller's return policy. Make sure they offer a reasonable repayment period and understand the terms and conditions. This will give you the peace of mind of being able to return the emerald if it does not meet your expectations.
5. Product Information: A reliable seller will provide detailed information on each emerald, including high-resolution images and specifications on color, clarity and cutting. He distrusts vendors who do not offer sufficient details about their products.
6. Price comparison: Compare prices on different websites to ensure you get a fair price. However, bear in mind that the price should not be the only determining factor; the quality of the emerald and the seller's reputation are also critical.
7. Security in Transaction: Uses secure payment methods and avoids making transactions on unsecured websites. Check that the website has security certificates and uses encryption protocols to protect your personal and financial information.
8. Customer Service: Customer service is a key indicator of a seller's reliability. Contact the seller before making the purchase to ask questions and evaluate the quality of their customer service.
9. Continuing Education: Stay informed about the latest trends and developments in the world of emeralds. Continuing education will allow you to make more informed decisions and keep abreast of best practices in buying gems online.

What to do once your Colombian emerald arrives

• Inspection to Reception: Upon receiving emerald, inspect it carefully. Check that it matches the description and the images provided by the seller. Pay special attention to possible damage during shipment.
• Certificate Verification: Confirms that the gemological certificate will accompany the emerald and verifies that the certificate information matches the seller's description.
• Jewel registration: If you have purchased the emerald to incorporate it into a jewel, consider registering it. This can be useful for future assessments, insurance and tracking your story in case you decide to sell it in the future.
• Care and Cleaning Suitable: Learn about the specific care your emerald requires. Some stones need special precautions in terms of cleaning and storage to maintain their beauty over time.
• Satisfaction evaluation: Take the time needed to evaluate your satisfaction with emerald. If you have concerns or questions, contact the seller for clarification or problem-solving.
• Feedback to Seller: If you are satisfied with your purchase, consider leaving a positive comment or provide feedback to the seller. This can be useful for other buyers and contribute to the seller's reputation.
• Insurance Update: If you've acquired a valuable emerald, be sure to update your insurance policy to include the new acquisition. This will protect your investment in case of loss, theft or damage.
• Periodic Maintenance: Regular Jewelry Review Program to make sure the emerald is in good condition and that the settings are safe. A professional jeweler can make necessary adjustments and offer tips on proper maintenance.

Paula A. Bonilla 

Social communicator and journalist from Sergio Arboleda University in Colombia. She is also a jeweler and is passionate about constantly learning about precious gems and national high jewelry.

Currently, she is working for one of Bogotá's most important jewelry stores, Emerald by Love. This jewelry store has over 40 years of experience and has 2 physical branches in the capital city of Colombia, located in the city center.