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Q&A: Experience Shopping for a Diamond Ring in South East Asia

By Mike Fried,

I’m planning buy an engagement ring from Blue Nile but is very hesitant on the security of doing it online. Would there be any physical store that I can visit? The one nearest to Philippines would be much appreciated. As to the budget, I can only afford up to 5k USD. I prefer a 6 prong solitaire setup in platinum between 0.7-.9 carat if possible.

Appreciate if you can help me out with my options. Thanks!

Blue Nile do have some physical showrooms, but those are in the US, they have no locations in Asia. But I don’t think that should be a problem. Blue Nile have a great return policy so you can always return the ring and get a full refund if you weren’t happy with it. And as for picking out the right diamond, you don’t really need to see it in person. All the important information about its appearance and performance are listed in the GIA report.

Would you be interested in some specific recommendations?

Yes pls share some recommendations. Also, my worry though is on the transit of the item as I’m really hesitant on its security knowing I’ll be paying quite a cost for that matter.

I understand, but Blue Nile have all their packages insured. If it got lost, you wouldn’t need to pay a dime.

May I ask what shape you’re interested in? And where exactly are you located?

I’m looking for a sixprong solitaire settings with round shape diamond. And I’m located in the Philippines. I’m happy to hear about the insurance but given that it will be paid in advance via credit card transactions, I can’t help but have my hesitations.

You can discuss is more with their customer service, they’ll tell you more about the insurance and the security measures they take. Also, ask them if shipping to the Phillippines would be possible (unfortunately, it’s not on the list of countries they ship to).

How about Singapore?

Singapore would work, yes.

Check out this beautiful combo that I found:
Classic Six-Prong Solitaire Engagement Ring

Blue Nile LD13057799

The diamond is fantastically cut and will be very brilliant.

Great! Let’s go with your recommendations then.

I’m happy to hear that you liked my recommendations so much!

James Allen James Allen is the leader in online diamond sales. Their imaging technology is the same as inspecting a diamond with a jeweler's loupe. They have the largest exclusive loose diamond inventory online and fantastic prices. They also have the nicest collection of lab-created diamonds online.
What we love about them:
  • No questions asked returns within 30 days of shipment. James Allen will send you a paid shipping label to return the ring.
  • Lifetime Warranty
  • Free International Shipping
  • Free prong tightening, repolishing, rhodium plating and cleaning every 6 months
  • Provide insurance appraisals
  • One free resizing within 60 days of purchase
  • Free ring inscriptions
  • Best-in-class high quality imagery of all diamonds in stock
  • 24/7 Customer Service
  • Best-in-class packaging
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Blue Nile Blue Nile is the largest and most well-known internet jewelry seller. They have a very large exclusive online inventory. Their high-quality images are catching up to James Allens' and their prices are amazing. Save 25% on settings at Blue Nile!

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What we love about them:
  • No questions asked returns within 30 days of shipment. Blue Nile will send you a paid shipping label to return the ring.
  • Lifetime Warranty
  • Free Shipping
  • Free prong tightening, repolishing, rhodium plating and cleaning every 6 months
  • Provide insurance appraisal
  • One free resizing within the first year of purchase
  • High quality images of about half of their diamonds
  • 24/7 Customer Service
  • 100% credit towards future upgrades (must be at least double in value)
  • Best in class fulfillment
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