When Stone Switching Happens
1During Purchase
You're shown a beautiful diamond, you agree to the price, and the salesperson takes it "to the back" for setting or packaging. The stone that comes back isn't the same one you chose.
How it works:
- • Distraction while the stone is out of your sight
- • Quick hand movements during "inspection"
- • Stone taken to back room for "cleaning" or "setting"
2During Repairs or Resizing
You bring your engagement ring in for resizing, cleaning, or prong repair. When you get it back, your diamond has been replaced with a lower-quality stone or even a fake.
Why repairs are risky:
- • Your ring is out of your possession for days or weeks
- • Most people don't document their stone's details beforehand
- • The switched stone may look similar to the untrained eye
3During Appraisals
Some unethical appraisers or pawn shops may switch stones when evaluating jewelry, especially if they know the owner isn't knowledgeable about diamonds.
Watch out for:
- • Appraisers who won't let you watch the process
- • Requests to leave the jewelry overnight
- • Unlicensed or unaccredited appraisers
How to Protect Your Diamond
Keep Your Certificate Handy
A GIA or IGI certificate with exact measurements, weight, and clarity plot is your proof. The laser inscription number should match your diamond's girdle engraving.
Document Before Handing Over
Take detailed photos and videos of your ring before any repair. Capture the inscription under magnification if possible. Note any unique inclusions.
Insist on Watching
For simple repairs, ask to watch the entire process. Reputable jewelers should have no problem with this. If they refuse, go elsewhere.
Get a Detailed Receipt
Before leaving your ring, get a receipt that includes the diamond's measurements, weight, and certificate number. Both parties should sign it.
Verify When You Pick Up
Check the laser inscription and compare measurements before leaving the store. Bring a loupe or ask to use theirs.
Red Flags During Purchase
What to Do If You Suspect a Switch
- 1
Don't accuse immediately
Stay calm and ask to see the diamond under magnification.
- 2
Check the laser inscription
Verify it matches your certificate number exactly.
- 3
Compare measurements
Use calipers if available; even small differences indicate a switch.
- 4
Get independent verification
Take the stone to an independent gemologist for assessment.
- 5
File a police report if confirmed
In Thailand, contact the Tourist Police (1155) for assistance.
Thailand-Specific Advice
- For repairs, use the same jeweler who sold you the ring if possible—they have records of your stone.
- The Gem and Jewelry Institute of Thailand (GIT) offers verification services.
- Tourist Police can assist if you're a visitor and suspect fraud: call 1155.
- Reputable shops in established malls (Siam Paragon, CentralWorld) are generally safer than street shops.
Work with a Jeweler You Can Trust
GlitzJewelry.com provides full documentation of every diamond, maintains detailed records, and offers transparent repair services with your stone never leaving your sight.
Visit GlitzJewelry.com