Tuesday, January 21st
2025 Diamond Store Reviews
25 Karats
- Just over 8,800 diamonds
- Prices range from $260 to $164,000
- Both conflict-free natural and lab-grown diamonds sold here
- View available certifications (GIA, AGS, IGI)
- Based in the NY Diamond District
- Free FedEx ground shipping
- 60-day returns
- "A+” rated and accredited by the BBB
25 Karats is based in NYC's Diamond District and has been in business for over 15 years. You'll find some decent perks when shopping for your next gemstone here, including a selection of nearly 9,000 loose stones ranging in price from a bargain-basement $260 all the way up to a $164,000 stunner. All purchases come with free FedEx ground shipping (insured, of course) and 60-day returns.
Not easy to find what you're looking for
However, finding loose diamonds here didn't go as smoothly as we were expecting. First, it was difficult to find our way to the lab-grown diamonds that are theoretically on offer here; we had to click through several different links to get there. Then, when we found a few gemstones that matched what we were looking for, we were told "Diamond Not Found” for every single lab-created option we clicked on. It definitely left us with the impression that 25 Karats' primary focus is on their conflict-free natural stones.
What you don't see is what you get
We were also disappointed that there were no images for any of the diamonds we selected, leaving us to wonder if 25 Karats shows actual photos of any stones prior to shipping them. Yes, you can view the GIA, AGS, or IGI certifications and ample details and diagrams of each diamond - but compared with rival diamond stores who offer videos and photos of each stone, appraisals on demand, or even live showings of any stone you want to see, 25 Karats comes up quite short.
Still gets an "A+” from the BBB
We're pleased to point out that 25 Karats has an unblemished reputation, at least as far as the Better Business Bureau is concerned: the BBB gives this diamond store a perfect "A+” grade as well as accreditation, and there were no complaints filed against 25 Karats there in the three years leading up to our evaluation.
Gets some love from customers
This diamond store also has decent feedback from customers, though with a few caveats: the reviews we found on third-party sites (like those that cater to people planning weddings) had nothing new after 2021, and the ones that 25 Karats has posted to their own website aren't independently-verified: they show the Google logo as if they've been listed there, but we couldn't find them on Google when we searched. Still, customer photos and comments are almost always favorable, with people saying this is a particularly good option for designing your own wedding rings and bands.
Not bad as a backup option when buying diamonds
At the end of the day, 25 Karats is just average among diamond stores. Compared with rival retailers that show you every stone from multiple angles and sometimes with 360° video, this store's lack of images is disappointing. However, customer feedback seems to be positive overall, especially if you're hoping to create a unique ring for your proposal or wedding. 25 Karats might be worth a look if you don't spot the stone (or the customization options) you're hoping for when you shop our higher-ranking diamond stores.
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The 12 Best Diamond Stores
Where Can You Find the Best Selection of Loose Diamonds?
Have you ever ventured into a local jewelry store with high hopes of finding the perfect stone, only to leave feeling disappointed? You're not alone. Many physical jewelry stores grapple with the challenge of stocking a diverse range of diamonds due to financial and logistical limitations.
In light of this, it's no wonder that an increasing number of diamond shoppers are gravitating towards online retailers. Why confine yourself to a small selection of stones with limited sizes and cuts when you can delve into an extensive assortment of diamonds? These gemstones span across various carat sizes, shapes, clarity levels, and price points. Reputable online establishments offer the convenience of a comprehensive 360° view of each diamond, accompanied by certifications and ratings from well-recognized appraisers.
Diamond Store FAQ
Continued from above...
One of the key drivers behind the increasing popularity of buying loose diamonds online is the unparalleled convenience that digital platforms offer. The traditional process of purchasing diamonds often involved visiting multiple physical stores, engaging with sales representatives, and navigating complex pricing structures. Online platforms simplify this process, letting you explore a vast array of options from the comfort of your home. This convenience factor is particularly appealing to a generation accustomed to the ease of online shopping for various products.
Furthermore, the online diamond market provides you with an extensive selection of diamonds, going beyond the limitations of brick-and-mortar stores. You can easily browse through an array of sizes, shapes, and qualities online. This allows you to find a diamond that perfectly aligns with your preferences and budget.
The acquisition of loose diamonds opens the door to an exhilarating opportunity to craft a distinctive piece of jewelry. Once you've made your diamond selection, the possibilities for designing your jewelry become virtually limitless. The online diamond retailer you opt for is likely to provide an impressive array of settings, encompassing traditional solitaires and inventive tension settings tailored for engagement rings.
As you might expect, the choice of the right retailer matters. Your diamond purchase could become a cherished heirloom passed down through generations, so you'll want to be sure you'll receive precisely what you pay for. To help you in your selection of the ideal diamond retailer, we suggest that you keep the following considerations in mind:
- Variety: Check the store's inventory of loose diamonds. Do they offer a wide range of options in terms of cut and size? Can you find a setting that suits your preferences?
- Price: Compare prices with other diamond sellers. Are there any special promotions or benefits, such as free shipping, to make your purchase more budget-friendly?
- Certification: Does the retailer provide documentation from reputable institutions like GIA, AGS, IGI, or EGL to certify your diamond's qualities? This is especially important for more valuable diamonds to ensure the stated carat size, clarity, and color are accurate.
- Reputation: Research what other customers have to say about their experiences with the retailer. Has the Better Business Bureau rated the store, and are there any customer complaints? Buying a diamond can be a significant investment, so it's worth taking the time to make sure the retailer you're considering has a strong track record for honesty and reliability.
Here at Top Consumer Reviews, our experts have evaluated and ranked today's best online diamond retailers. We hope this information assists you in finding the ideal loose diamond for your long-awaited proposal, one-of-a-kind pendant, or a timeless heirloom piece to be passed on for generations.
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