● Guide

Buying jewellery online: pros and risks

In brief

Buying jewellery online often means more choice and keen prices, but you only see the piece on delivery: you cannot try it on, judge a stone's sparkle or check the size before buying. For an important piece, the shop keeps the edge.

How it works

You order from the jeweller's or a brand's website; the parcel arrives insured and hallmarked. A 14-day right of withdrawal applies to distance purchases (bespoke excluded).

The real risks

When to prefer a jeweller

For an engagement ring, wedding bands or an important purchase, a local jeweller lets you try on, see the stones, adjust the size and secure after-sales. Compare your city's jewellers first.