Bogotá is known for its wide range of jewelry stores, especially those that sell pieces featuring emeralds, Colombia's signature gemstone. For tourists, buying jewelry in Bogotá can be even more appealing thanks to the Tax Refund program. This benefit allows international visitors to recover a percentage of the VAT (Value Added Tax) on purchases made in the country, including jewelry.

In this article, we'll explain what the Tax Refund is, how it works in Colombia, and whether all jewelry stores should offer this service. We'll also highlight Emerald By Love, one of the best jewelry stores in Bogotá that offers a tax refund, and why you should consider it for your next purchase.

What is a Tax Refund?

The Tax Refund is a benefit offered to international tourists that allows them to recover part of the tax they paid in the country they visit. In Colombia, this tax is VAT, which is 19% of the value of certain goods and services. The purpose of the Tax Refund is to encourage tourism and spending by foreigners, refunding a portion of the tax once they return to their home country.

How does the Tax Refund work in Colombia?

In Colombia, the Tax Refund is available to non-resident tourists who make purchases over 10 UVT (Tax Value Units), which in 2024 is approximately $424,000 COP. Purchases must be made in authorized establishments, and eligible products include jewelry, clothing, handicrafts, electronics, and more.

To access the Tax Refund, follow these steps:

1. Shop at authorized establishments: Not all stores offer this benefit, so it's important to verify that the jewelry store is registered in the VAT refund program.

2. Request an electronic invoice: When making your purchase, ask for an electronic invoice that shows the VAT paid.

3. Request a refund at the airport: When leaving Colombia, present the invoice, your purchased products, and the refund form at the DIAN (National Tax and Customs Office) desk at the airport. If approved, you'll receive the refund on your credit card within a few weeks.

Should all jewelry stores offer the Tax Refund service?

Not all jewelry stores are required to offer the Tax Refund service. This benefit is only available in establishments that are registered in the tax refund program with DIAN (National Tax and Customs Directorate). It's important for tourists to check whether the jewelry store offers this option before making a purchase. In Bogotá, several renowned jewelry stores are already affiliated, making jewelry shopping even more attractive for foreigners.

Emerald By Love: The Best Jewelry Store with a Tax Refund in Bogotá

If you're looking to purchase high-quality jewelry and take advantage of the Tax Refund in Bogotá, one of the best options is **Emerald By Love**. This jewelry store specializes in pieces featuring emeralds, offering a carefully curated selection of rings, necklaces, earrings, and bracelets known for their beauty and authenticity.

Emerald By Love has earned an excellent reputation not only for the quality of its products but also for its customer service, which includes the option of a Tax Refund for tourists. When shopping at Emerald By Love, you can be sure you're acquiring a genuine, certified piece of jewelry with the added benefit of getting a portion of the VAT refunded when you return home.

Reasons to choose Emerald By Love:

- Specialization in Colombian emeralds: Emeralds are one of the most valued gemstones in the world, and Colombian emeralds are known for their superior quality. Emerald By Love guarantees authenticity and provides certification for each piece.

- Simple and secure purchasing process: The jewelry store offers a tourist-friendly shopping experience, with staff trained to guide you through the tax refund application process.

- Guaranteed VAT refund: As an affiliate of the Tax Refund program, Emerald By Love ensures you can benefit from this system, making your purchase even more economical.

Buying jewelry in Bogotá is a great way to take home a piece of Colombia's rich cultural heritage, especially when choosing pieces with emeralds. If you're a tourist, the Tax Refund is a benefit you shouldn't miss, as it allows you to recover a portion of the VAT. By choosing authorized jewelry stores like Emerald By Love, you'll not only be purchasing a high-quality piece of jewelry but also ensuring you get this refund, making your purchase even more valuable.

Before making a purchase, be sure to ask if the establishment is affiliated with the Tax Refund program, and follow all necessary steps to apply for the refund before leaving the country. Your experience in Bogotá will be unforgettable with both a beautiful piece of jewelry and a tax refund in your pocket!

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.