Last Updated on December 29, 2023
Blue Nile dominates the world of cyberspace retail in the way of fine diamonds and jewelry. Their huge collection of gemstones and baubles covers an array of styles. They have payment plans, customizations and a simple to use website.
As with anything, however, there are a few pitfalls and other aspects that can leave potential buyers quite underwhelmed. Not least of which is charging $30 for engraving and a lack of quality photographs. Consider this Blue Nile review to see if it’s what you’re looking for.
Blue Nile Quick Overview
Benefits
- Conflict-free and certified diamonds
- Customers can teach themselves about the diamond industry and how to look at diamonds
- Financial options and installment plans
- More than 200,000 gemstones including designer jewelry
- Easily navigate the website
- To get the best price for a loose gemstone, they have a price-match guarantee
- Has a diamond buy-back program through CIRCA
Detriments
- There aren’t many detailed photos for a closer inspection
- Images available do not reflect the actual diamond you’ll receive
- Returning and shipping items can be frustrating and expensive to the customer
- Engraving costs $30 on a limited range of items
- Customers must pay for the shipping to have cleanings and repairs done under warranty
What Blue Nile Offers
Blue Nile guarantees the lowest prices for any one of their more than 200,000 featured gemstones. They don’t keep their stock in house. Blue Nile has agreements with worldwide wholesalers, which means their diamonds are not readily available at anywhere else.
They have conflict-free diamonds that are often at a price that’s about 40% lower than their leading competitors. Blue Nile employs the “Kimberly Process.” This means the diamond undergoes a strict system of tracing of the stone’s journey from source to store. This ensures the stones receive humane and ethical treatment in their acquisition.
Diamond Certification ; Jewelry Selections
Plus, they use the American Gem Society Laboratories (AGSL) and the Gemological Institute of America (GIA) to grade all their diamonds. These highly reputable organizations provide potential buyers peace of mind.
There are more than diamonds too, with an array of at least 20 different gemstones, including pearls and colored diamonds. There are other baubles like bracelets, brooches, earrings, rings, necklaces and many others.
Shopping on Blue Nile’s Website
Blue Nile prides itself on offering the best online shopping experience. They give shoppers a choice of payment options and offer help when trying to locate the best price. They have customization options and diamond upgrades as well as a diamond buy-back program.
Website Navigation
Blue Nile knows the average person is not a diamond expert. So, they made their website easy to browse and they have search filters to help narrow their massive inventory. They have a resource section to help shoppers learn about diamonds and what the different cuts are, complete with an FAQ.
Their representatives are easy to contact and they offer in-site chat. You can set up a virtual appointment with their staff to discuss your desired selections in more detail. The whole interface of the site is self-explanatory and intuitive, so even the most inept computer users will find it easy.
Diamond Inspection
Unfortunately, the photographs they have of the diamonds leave much to desire and this is a huge detriment. While they do have great descriptions and details for their gemstones, they only show a sample photo.
While Blue Nile has a 360 degree view of the gemstones, they are low rez and cheap looking with pixilation that gets worse with enlargement. They only give you a roundabout idea of what they look like. None of these will be what you’re actually going to get if you choose to purchase it.
The good news is you can speak with a customer service rep and ask for more detailed pictures. The problem in doing this, though, is the length of time it will take to see the photos. Also, you don’t ever know in any certain way that the information you get from the seller will be forthcoming.
Other Features Blue Nile Offers
Blue Nile has a “Build a Ring” feature for customizing engagement or wedding rings. You can choose your price, shape, quality and other desired selections. Once you’ve made a purchase, you can opt to get a free upgrade to your loose gemstone and it comes with a free lifetime warranty.
When there’s a distinct defect or damage in manufacturing, the warranty replaces or repairs any item. They also clean and inspect your item free, but you do have to pay shipping costs for it.
Plus, if you want to sell your diamonds, they do offer a buy-back program via a lucrative contract with CIRCA. CIRCA also takes other jewelry and watches with a simple and DIY process. You can do this in person at any one of their 14 locations or through the mail. They will either pay you in cash or give you a Blue Nile gift card.
Payments, Financing Options ; Returns
Blue Nile has a bunch of ways shoppers can pay for their selections. They accept payments from PayPal, bank transfers and standard credit cards. Plus, they have three different financing options to choose from:
- Pay in Full up to 18 Months: No interest will incur for 18 months after a minimum $2,000 purchase.
- 9.99% APR that goes up to 28.99% after two years: Purchases must range between $2,000 and $6,000.
- No Special Terms: Faithful monthly payments of their credit card translate to a 25-day grace period.
Blue Nile has a 30-day return policy. You’ll get a full refund and they won’t ask questions why. This begins the moment they ship your piece to you.
Summary – Should you buy in Blue Nile?
While there are some drawbacks to shopping at Blue Nile, there are a host of benefits too. Besides, with such a huge selection, anyone and everyone is bound to find something they love. They have some of the best possible customer service you can find in cyberspace and offer some of the most desirable customizations.
