Online diamond wholesalers can offer lower prices, but you must verify authenticity with reputable lab reports (GIA, AGS, HRD Antwerp, IGI), confirm whether a stone is natural or lab-grown, and check return and shipping policies. Compare total costs and request laser inscriptions or independent appraisals when needed.

Why verification matters

Diamonds are expensive and mistakes are costly. Whether you buy loose stones or finished jewelry online, insist on documentation and transparent policies before you pay.

Look for reputable grading reports

Reputable diamonds come with a gemological report from an independent lab. Today the most widely trusted labs include GIA (Gemological Institute of America), AGS (American Gem Society), HRD Antwerp, and IGI (International Gemological Institute). Some older guides also list the European Gemological Laboratory (EGL) and its regional branches; those organizations have shown grading variability and organizational changes over the years .

A full report lists the 4Cs (cut, color, clarity, carat), measurements, and often a plotted clarity diagram. For round brilliants, note that a standard round brilliant has 57 facets (58 if a culet is present). Modern reports may also note a laser-inscribed report number on the diamond's girdle.

Watch for lab-grown diamonds

Lab-grown (lab-created) diamonds are chemically and optically the same as natural diamonds but usually sell for less. Reputable sellers and labs clearly state whether a diamond is natural or lab-grown on the report. If a listing omits origin, ask for clarification and documentation.

Practical checks before you buy

  • Verify the report number against the issuing lab's online database.
  • Ask for high-resolution photos or videos and measurements that match the report.
  • Confirm the seller's return policy, shipping insurance, and secure payment methods.
  • Request an independent appraisal if you plan to insure the stone.
  • Look for laser inscription on the girdle that matches the report number.

Online wholesalers can be a good source - with caveats

Online wholesalers often offer lower prices than retail because they sell loose stones and operate with lower overhead. That can translate to meaningful savings, but not always extreme discounts. Compare total costs (stone, mounting, certification, shipping, taxes) and favor sellers with clear provenance, firm return terms, and visible lab reports.

Final checklist

Before you buy, confirm: the issuing lab and report number, whether the diamond is natural or lab-grown, matching laser inscription (if present), clear photos or video, and a fair return policy. When in doubt, get an independent appraisal once the diamond arrives.
  1. Confirm current status and reliability of European Gemological Laboratory (EGL) and its regional branches (EGLNY, EGL LA) and note any major reorganizations or closures.

FAQs about Diamond Wholesale

Are diamonds sold by online wholesalers real?
They can be. Real diamonds should come with an independent lab report from a recognized lab (for example GIA, AGS, HRD Antwerp, or IGI). Verify the report number on the lab's website and check photos, measurements, and seller policies.
How do I tell if a diamond is lab-grown or natural?
A reputable listing and lab report will state origin (natural or lab-grown). If the listing omits origin, ask the seller and request a lab report that explicitly identifies the diamond as natural or lab-grown.
What should I check on a diamond report?
Confirm the 4Cs (cut, color, clarity, carat), measurements, clarity plot, report number, and any notes about treatments or origin. For round brilliants, note that standard faceting is 57 facets (58 with a culet).
Can I save money buying wholesale online?
You may pay less because wholesalers often sell loose stones with lower overhead. Savings vary - compare the total landed cost (stone, mounting, certification, shipping, taxes) and prefer sellers with transparent documentation and returns.
What if the diamond doesn’t match the report when it arrives?
Use the seller's return policy and, if necessary, obtain an independent appraisal. Keep all original documentation and photos from the listing to support your claim.