Solomon Brothers

- Financing
- Wells Fargo (6 to 60 months)
- Shipping
- Free U.S. shipping
- Returns
- 30-day returns; custom exchange
- Warranty
- 1-year plus lifetime cleaning

After comparing online jewelry stores on customer ratings, selection, accreditations and more, Solomon Brothers is our pick for best overall, offering strong value through high customer satisfaction, flexible financing and solid policies. ItsHot.com stands out for affordability, while Blue Nile leads in selection and Jared is strong in warranty coverage and long-term protection.
The ConsumerAffairs Research Team evaluated online jewelers across three core areas: customer experience, product selection and value, and company policies and services. We combined verified customer feedback with objective data like product variety, pricing, warranties and return policies to capture real-world shopping considerations. See our full methodology below for details on how we scored and selected our top picks.
| Company | Customer rating | Our pick for | Prices* | Financing available | Free shipping** | Return policy | Warranty | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
![]() Solomon Brothers | Learn More | 4.9
56 reviews
56 reviews
| Overall | $59 to $421,300 | Free U.S. shipping | 30-day returns; custom exchange | 1-year plus lifetime cleaning | |
![]() ItsHot.com | Learn More | 4.3
170 reviews
170 reviews
| Affordability | $99 to $200,000 | Free $150+ (U.S.) | 30-day returns; limits apply | 1-year to lifetime | |
![]() Blue Nile | Learn More | 1.9
170 reviews
170 reviews
| Selection | $50 to $99,990 | Free shipping | 30-day returns | Limited; extra plans available | |
![]() Jared The Galleria Of Jewelry | Learn More | 1.7
229 reviews
229 reviews
| Warranty | $40 to $180,000 | Free $199+ or in-store | 30-day returns | Diamond warranty; plans available |




The ConsumerAffairs Research Team evaluated jewelry retailers using a structured scoring model. We assessed several metrics across three core areas: customer experience, product selection and value, and company policies and services.
Review data reflects verified feedback submitted to ConsumerAffairs between April 1, 2022, and March 31, 2026. We measured satisfaction with:
We evaluated the breadth of each retailer’s offerings and overall value, including:
We also evaluated company policies and value-added services that impact the shopping experience, including:
We also considered professional certifications and industry affiliations where applicable.
Companies earned a zero to 10 score for every metric:
This standardized system lets us compare subjective data (customer satisfaction from verified reviews) along with objective data (product selection, pricing, policies and services) on the same scale.
All companies were evaluated using the same set of metrics, but award categories apply different weightings depending on what the designation highlights.
For example:
Each category uses a weighted scoring system totaling 100%, assuring consistent and fair comparisons across companies.
The company with the highest weighted score in each category earned the corresponding “Our pick for” designation. If a company ranked first in multiple categories, we awarded the designation to the next-highest scoring company in that category to highlight a broader group of top performers.
Jump into our guides and start learning
Choosing jewelry is a personal decision, and people often have different needs and tastes. Some jewelers make pieces by hand, while others stock their inventories with products from other manufacturers. Some jewelry stores also offer services like jewelry repair. Read our guide to research the right jewelry store for you.
Always verify metal purity and gemstone type before buying — quality comes down to what the piece is actually made of.
Jump to insightCheck specs like carat weight, dimensions and total weight to accurately compare pieces online.
Jump to insightChoose jewelers that clearly disclose materials, certifications, warranties and policies upfront.
Jump to insightBuying jewelry online can save money and expand your options, but it also makes it easier to overlook important details. The key takeaway from both FTC guidance and real buyer experiences is to focus on verified materials and clear information — not marketing claims.
The most important factor in jewelry quality is what it’s made of. Look for:
Many shoppers report that solid metals last longer, while plated jewelry is more likely to tarnish or wear down.
Sellers should clearly disclose the type of stone:
This distinction has a major impact on price and long-term value, so don’t buy without clarity.
Online images can be misleading. Focus on measurable specs like:
Measurements are more reliable than photos when comparing jewelry online.
Some common terms have strict meanings, but they’re often misunderstood:
Look for specific percentages, karats or certifications instead of general descriptions.
Key details should be easy to find — not hidden in fine print. Check for:
If you have to dig for this information, consider another seller.
Reliable jewelers offer protections and documentation that help verify your purchase:
These details help confirm quality and protect your investment over time.
Beyond product details, real buyer feedback matters:
Shoppers often find that quality is more closely tied to materials and transparency than brand name alone.
Another common consumer takeaway: Very low prices often indicate lower-quality materials. That can lead to:
Spending slightly more on solid materials can save money over time
To buy jewelry online safely, prioritize material quality, clear disclosures and verified specifications over branding or price alone. If you can’t easily confirm what a piece is made of or why it’s priced the way it is, it’s best to keep shopping.
» RELATED: Best gold dealers
The average engagement ring costs $5,200. Anecdotally, Mike in Georgia told us he spent $6,000 on an engagement ring, Paul in Texas spent more than $10,000 and Krystal in Los Angeles spent over $24,000. Prices depend on the diamond’s cut, color, clarity and carat, as well as the setting and metal type.
Jewelry quality depends on materials and craftsmanship. Fine jewelry uses precious metals and real gemstones, while lower-cost pieces may use base metals or plating. For diamonds, quality is based on the four Cs:
Ring resizing typically costs $20 to $200, depending on the design and complexity. To maintain jewelry, store it in a clean, dry place, keep pieces separate to avoid scratches and consider insurance for high-value items.
» RELATED: Tips to pack jewelry for a move
Information in this guide is general in nature and is intended for informational purposes only; it is not legal, health, investment or tax advice. ConsumerAffairs.com makes no representation as to the accuracy of the information provided and assumes no liability for any damages or loss arising from its use.
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| Company | Customer rating | About | Learn More |
|---|---|---|---|
Solomon Brothers
| 4.9
56 reviews
| Atlanta-based jeweler with nationwide online sales. Custom designs plus natural and lab-grown diamonds. Repairs, cleanings and appraisals. Multiple guarantees, including lifetime upgrades. Financing through Wells Fargo. | Read reviews |
ItsHot.com
| 4.3
170 reviews
| Online jewelry retailer specializing in the manufacture and wholesale pricing of diamond jewelry and watches. Offers custom designs. Selection of 20,000+ pieces. Multiple price points. | Read reviews |
Stauer
| 3.3
1,167 reviews
| Sells watches, jewelry and other high-end lifestyle products. Satisfaction and secure shopping guarantee. Discounts available, including annual Platinum Membership. Personal concierge for high-value purchases. | Shop Now |
Don Roberto Jewelers
| 3.5
23 reviews
| Founded in 1972, Don Roberto Jewelers is a company with multiple retail stores located in California. The company has a special division focused on baby and children's jewelry, and it also sells jewelry for religious ceremonies. | Read reviews |
Kay Jewelers
| 1.9
969 reviews
| Kay Jewelers is known for high-quality jewelry that's also affordable. While the company specializes in wedding and engagement sets, its stores and website offer a full range of jewelry items at price points to fit every budget. | Read reviews |
Blue Nile
| 1.9
170 reviews
| Blue Nile makes it easy for customers to design their own jewelry, including earrings, pendants and engagement rings. Start your design with a certain stone or setting, or choose from a well-stocked inventory of pre-made pieces. | Read reviews |
Swarovski
| 1.8
90 reviews
| Not just a jewelry company, Swarovski brings the glitz, glamour and opulence to products ranging from classic watches to Hello Kitty figurines. When you're looking for high-end costume jewelry, Swarovski delivers. | Read reviews |
Zales
| 1.6
661 reviews
| Known for its trademark elegance and timeless style, as well as exclusive collections like designer Vera Wang's, Zales prides itself on educating customers on jewelry purchases. Shop online by stone, metal type or price point. | Read reviews |
Jewelry Television
| 1.5
251 reviews
| Founded in 1993, Jewelry Television is a home shopping network that streams live programming on its cable channel and website. Jewelry Television’s website sells high-end and costume jewelry, gemstones and jewelry-making kits. | Read reviews |
Jared The Galleria Of Jewelry
| 1.7
229 reviews
| Home of the Leo diamond and Neil Lane designs, Jared The Galleria of Jewelry offers a variety of options, from promise and engagement rings to tennis bracelets. Custom pieces of jewelry are another popular option. | Read reviews |
Timex
| 1.5
188 reviews
| Timex Watches is an American company founded in 1854. Their mainstay is affordable, casual watches, but higher-end watches are also available. | Read reviews |
Invicta Watches
| 1.2
428 reviews
| The Invicta Watch Group is a Swiss watch company whose focus is on creating high-quality luxury watches at an affordable price. The company is well-known for creating oversized, professional dive watches to be worn underwater. | Read reviews |
Brilliant Earth
| 1.2
296 reviews
| Worldwide, online jewelry retailer. Ethically sourced and sustainable options. Customizable. Natural and lab-grown diamonds. 100% recycled precious metals. Free, limited lifetime manufacturer warranty. 30-day return policy. | Read reviews |
Tiffany & Co.
| 1.1
185 reviews
| Few names match the brand recognition Tiffany & Co. has built up over the years. Today's customers can get the same timeless style the company has been famous for since 1837, complete with their signature blue box. | Read reviews |
MVMT Watches
| 1.0
84 reviews
| This online-first watch brand is dedicated to providing stylish, on-trend watches at affordable prices. | Read reviews |
Fred Meyer Jewelers
| 1.0
89 reviews
| Fred Meyer Jewelers caters to buyers who like to score a deal. The site offers free two-day shipping on orders over $99, and sales are common, with discounts ranging from 35 percent all the way to 75 percent off original prices. | Read reviews |
Citizen Watches
| 1.0
32 reviews
| Citizen Watches have been around for over 100 years and have gained a reputation for quality and creativity. Citizen Watches created the Chronomaster watch line, unofficially known as the most accurate watch ever made. | Read reviews |
Fossil
| 1.0
95 reviews
| The Fossil Watch brand is a part of Fossil Group, an American fashion designer and manufacturer. Fossil Watches are known for their vintage-inspired design and connected designer smartwatches. | Read reviews |
Cartier
| 1.0
55 reviews
| Cartier is synonymous with luxury in the jewelry industry, and with good reason. The company specializes in exquisite engagement rings with the highest quality stones, including the company's most iconic ring: the Solitaire 1895. | Read reviews |
Seiko Watches
| 1.0
10 reviews
| Makes men’s and women’s watches in a variety of styles. Offers three-year warranties standard. Additional one-year warranties available. Watch prices range from $185 to $775. Operates a service center for repairs and maintenance. | Read reviews |
De Beers Forevermark
| No reviews | High-quality diamonds. Carefully tracked to remain conflict-free. Less than 1% of natural diamonds are eligible for Forevermark. Diamonds are certified and can be registered. Online purchases include free overnight shipping. |
ConsumerAffairs writers primarily rely on government data, industry experts and original research from reputable publications to inform their work. Specific sources for this guide include:
