Buying Diamonds in Hong Kong, Best Stores

Discussing diamonds in Hong Kong is almost impossible without mentioning DFHK, an acronym for the Diamond Federation of Hong Kong. Its primary role is to protect diamond buyers and sellers from dishonest business practices. The federation has a regulatory framework that ensures that you get value for your money each time. With such a robust system in place, shopping for diamonds in Hong Kong is always fulfilling.

As your safe pair of hands, this organization aims to foster better business practices. To do so, it standardizes all business activities, including those touching on the jewelry trade. However, DFHK is one of many associations that works in the interest of diamond shoppers; we have other concerned state authorities.

Collectively, these associations work to maintain the reputation of Hong Kong as the World Diamond Center. Though they serve sellers and buyers, they tend to be more inclined toward consumers, which is good news for anyone who wants to buy diamonds in Hong Kong. A functional consumer protection body is the first step in fostering ethical business practices.

First, DFHK works with a scheme known as the Integrity Pledge Scheme., which must be followed by all diamond traders who DFHK works with a scheme known as the Integrity Pledge Scheme., which must be followed by all diamond traders that are members of this association. The program aims to protect the diamond trade's professional and ethical image. Under this scheme, a trader must give an undertaking that their business practices will always be above board. The traders should make this commitment in words and demonstrate it in action.

For instance, the scheme mandates members to give a factual description of their sales. Such a report should appear in the sales invoices and applies to purchases above 0.3 carats. Therefore, when buying diamonds in Hong Kong, it is safer that you deal with a duly-enlisted DFHK member. It is the only way you can buy freely without the nagging concerns of getting duped.

Another way DFHK protects consumers is by regulating diamond quality. Diamond quality has always been a contentious issue, especially for lab-grown diamonds, which is why there has always been a need for a proper grading system. But even with adequate grading systems, some sellers have managed to game the system. The DFHK furthered a Natural Diamond Quality-Assurance Mark [NDQAM] in light of these developments. With the NDQAM mark, you are sure every diamond you buy is of top quality.

Apart from these two major roles, DFHK plays many other consumer-facing roles. For instance, it strives to educate consumers on the mandate of the Trade Description Ordinance. One such area, among others, is emphasizing that the term "diamond" implies "natural diamond." As a buyer, you can presume every jewelry packaged as a "diamond" to be a natural diamond, which also means that the diamond should be conflict-free.

With all these measures, shopping for diamonds in Hong Kong should be a hassle-free experience. Regardless of the color, carat weight, or clarity you are looking for, DFHK has your back. From simple diamond shapes to glamorous cuts, quality assurance is guaranteed.

The most popular place to buy diamonds in Hong Kong is Kowloon. Located along Nathan Road, Kowloon is also known as the Golden Mile due to the wide assortment of jewelry you can find here. It is the only place in Hong Kong where you can find many jewelry shops crammed into a small area. Furthermore, you will get big jewelry companies like Chow Tai Fook.

As the most prominent jewelry company in Asia, Chow Tai Fook has at least a dozen shops in Kowloon. Across Asia, this company boasts over 1000 retail outlets. Chow Tai Fook is famous not only among locals but tourists as well. This results in noticeable drawbacks like overcrowding and substantial price variations. According to anecdotal reports, diamonds in Chow Tai Fook are up to 40% costlier than in other reputable companies, which applies to most diamond shops in Kowloon. Apart from Chow Tai Fook, many other big jewelry shops are in Kowloon, including Luk Fook, Tse Sui Luen Jewel, Chow Sang Sang, and Prince Diamonds.

One advantage of shopping at any of these shops is that they are well-spread across Hong Kong. Hence, instead of visiting Nathan Road, you can always shop at a store near you. But it could be a possibility that you do not love the vibe of large diamond stores. Do not worry because Hong Kong also boasts many smaller independent jewelry outlets.

However, be wary of such outlets, especially those only starting up. Independent outlets offer a personalized and undeniable shopping experience. However, some of them are not very reputed like their established counterparts. Thus, getting a refund from smaller diamond outlets is harder than in more established stores. Also, remember that most of these small stores may be struggling to stay afloat. As such, they could opt to deal in diamonds graded by shady laboratories. Worse, these independent stores may not offer diamonds from renowned brands. Therefore, insist on a well-reputed store if you are looking for the best experience shopping branded diamonds.

Besides Kowloon on Nathan Road, another famous diamond trading center is in Causeway Bay, on Hennessy Road. Compared to Kowloon, Causeway Bay has fewer jewelry outlets, though visitors prefer it for its diverse shopping experience. Besides diamonds and other jewelry, you can also shop for souvenirs and food. Hence, it is your go-to center if you are looking to spend your entire day shopping in the same spot. One significant drawback of Causeway Bay is the limited variety of diamonds. Since jewelry shops are fewer here, you are likely to pay higher than usual for a diamond. However, you get a more personalized shopping experience compared to Kowloon.

Lastly, we have Central on Queen's Road, which shoppers love for its calm and relaxing vibes. It is an ideal place to shop for diamonds if you prefer a quiet shopping experience. You will hardly experience pressure selling at Central on Queen's Road. As you may expect, it comes with the extra advantage of the clarity of thought. The center also hosts more business people than tourists, meaning diamond sellers are not capitalizing on the massive influx of tourists. Therefore, you are more likely to get better bargains here than in Kowloon or Causeway Bay. The only challenge is that the shops are not very close to each other, and so you may require some time to get from one shop to another. Depending on how you view it, it can be a plus or a drawback.

It is easier to buy diamonds online in Hong Kong. Besides, it is also cheaper to shop online than in physical diamond outlets. You get a wide variety of jewelry, all in one place. The best part is that comparing prices online is easier because there is no pressure to sell, and you can shop at your own pace.

After locating a reputable store, proceed to their displays and thoroughly sample their offers. Try to hunker down on your preferred jewelry. While you do so, do not shy away from asking critical questions: Does the store offer refunds? What is their shipping policy?

After your due diligence, proceed to the next store and compare prices. Try to settle on a store that ticks all the boxes and then place your order.

Buying diamonds in Hong Kong is an experience like no other. You will always find fair bargains with many diamond centers at your disposal. However, we would recommend shopping for all your diamonds online. There, you not only get variety, but by buying online from a reputable store, you also save up to 30% on the diamond.