The internet has changed the way we shop. Due to the fact that online shopping has advanced so much, that it has become the convention method for most people. If you don’t believe us, just look at the rate online shops are growing at!

No one can deny that shopping online has numerous benefits; it’s faster, easier and more convenient for most. It is a great way to find rare pieces and order them from anyone, anywhere in the world. But that convenience comes at a price. You never know how accurate the product’s description is, whether the pictures are real or not and if the item will actually reach your doorstep.

While this is inconvenient when buying clothes or gadgets, buying antiques online can be even trickier and riskier.

You Could Risk Being Scammed

They say that imitation is the greatest form of flattery; however, there’s nothing flattering about unknowingly buying a knock-off of an antique piece you have been eyeing for so long. In fact, if somebody knowingly sold a fake piece of antique jewelry that’s an outright fraud. Back in the day, selling a fake item was much more difficult since it was done in-person. The fact that you could see and feel the antique piece you were buying was often enough to expose frauds for what they are.

Fake antiques have never been so present on the market, due to two important factors. The first is that the resources used to make a forgery of any item are widely available and much more sophisticated. The second is online shopping; not being able to inspect the piece of jewelry you are interested in buying is a huge downside, as even certificates can be forged. And by the time you find out you were scammed, it might be too late to do anything about it since the perpetrator already got away with it!

If You Still Want to Buy Online

If you aren’t convinced and choose to ignore the risks, there are several precautions you can take when shopping for antique jewelry online. Be sure to always ask the seller to disclose close-up photos of the piece you are interested in, especially important hallmarks.

Some sellers might be willing to sell you on an approval basis. This means that you can decide whether you want to buy the item only after it arrives so that you can inspect it or take it to a professional for appraisal. If not, you can return the item and get a refund if you return it by a certain time and in the same condition it arrived in.

Finally, consider using an online escrow service. These services protect both sellers and buyers from a potential scam. Escrow services will hold the payment until the buyer receives and inspects the merchandise, and then the service forwards the payment to the seller.

Should You Buy Antiques Online?

No matter how advanced the internet is, nothing beats seeing an antique piece of jewelry with your own eyes. While the internet is a good way to do your research and find antique jewelry styles you’re interested in, we still recommend good, old-fashioned brick and mortar stores.

If you are looking for a reputable antique jewelry seller look no further than Leo Hamel Fine Jewelry & Engagement Ring Store. Our friendly salespeople at our luxurious showroom on San Diego Avenue can help you find the perfect piece of antique jewelry for your collection from our vast inventory.