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Blue Nile Singapore 2024: Newbie Buying Guide (Taxes and Fees)

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Quick Overview

  • Do take note that when shopping from Blue Nile and importing to Singapore, there’s an 8% GST and a 0.5% insurance fee to factor in.

  • Be aware that couriers might add an additional disbursement fee, which equates to 5% of the ring’s cost, with a minimum of $10 and a maximum of $100.

  • Despite the GST and insurance fee is added to your order value, Blue Nile consistently undercuts the Singaporean local market.

  • Combined with their competitive pricing, extensive collection, great customer support, 360 diamond videos, and after-sale services, Blue Nile offers a much better value compared to a local retailer.

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Table of Contents

On your way to purchase a diamond from Blue Nile? Residing in Singapore and worried about the whole buying process? Well, it’s easier than you might think. This comprehensive review and purchasing guide will assist you through their online experience, demystify import fees and taxes, and discuss their after-sales services and support. Are you set? Let’s begin.

A Closer Look at Blue Nile Singapore

With an inventory boasting over 300,000 natural diamonds and 20,000 lab-grown diamonds, all certified by the GIA, challenging Blue Nile’s dominance is a hard task. Their comprehensive diamond collection is unrivaled by any local retailer, even when factoring in tax rates and additional fees. Such is the potency of Blue Nile’s pricing system that it outmatches most of the market.

Yet, their diverse selection is only part of their appeal. Blue Nile, alongside James Allen, offers the highest quality diamond videos in the industry, providing 360 videos for diamonds listed on their platform. This technology simplifies the buying process significantly as it alleviates the need for in-depth diamond knowledge to identify a diamond that’s visually appealing and clear to the naked eye.

Furthermore, an expansive selection of gold jewelry and wedding bands ensures that there’s an option to cater to everyone’s taste. Customization is central to Blue Nile’s approach, particularly with regard to their engagement ring selection in Singapore. Whether you’re seeking a particular setting, a specific type of metal, or a unique diamond shape, you’re empowered to design a perfect ring yourself that aligns with your preferences and budget.

Customization Possibilities

Blue Nile strives to guarantee that your diamond ring is authentically distinctive. The Build Your Own Ring® feature offers customers the freedom to design a unique ring by choosing the metal, stone, and setting that suits their taste. This level of customization ensures you create a ring that authentically symbolizes your love and commitment.

In addition, Blue Nile extends complimentary ring resizing on all engagement rings for up to a year after purchase. This reassures you that your ring is a perfect fit and comfortable to wear, turning it into a treasured keepsake for many years ahead.

Understanding Costs when Importing an Engagement Ring from Blue Nile to Singapore

When you decide to purchase an engagement ring from Blue Nile and import it to Singapore, a few additional charges should be considered to ensure you have a complete picture of the overall cost. Despite these added expenses, the convenience, selection, and competitive pricing that Blue Nile jewellery offers frequently outweigh these considerations.

Importer of Record: Responsibilities and Costs

Primarily, when purchasing from Blue Nile, customers should note that they will act as the importer of record. This means you’ll be responsible for any customs fees and taxes associated with the ring’s import. However, it’s worth highlighting that, fortunately, there are no import duties when buying a ring from Blue Nile to Singapore.

Goods and Services Tax (GST) on Imported Goods

One standard fee levied on imported goods in Singapore is an 8% Goods and Services Tax (GST). This tax is applicable to items with a total value of 400 SGD and above. Despite being an additional charge, it’s equivalent to the amount you’d have to pay if you bought a ring locally.

Singapore GST Tax Calculator for Diamond Shopping at Blue Nile

Enter the amount of money you plan on spending and find out how much you need to add on top of that. This way, you’ll know your real budget limits.





Insurance and Courier Fees for Your Ring

Alongside the GST, Blue Nile applies a non-refundable insurance fee, which equates to 0.5% of the cost of your ring. For instance, if you purchase a ring for $5,000, the insurance fee would be $25. This fee provides assurance that your valuable purchase is covered during transit.

Additionally, the courier company may ask to pay a ‘disbursement fee’, which is calculated as 5% of the ring’s cost, with a minimum charge of $10 and a maximum of $100. There might also be warehouse fees applied if the delivery cannot be completed after the third attempt. These costs, while not insignificant, are typically outweighed by the overall value and convenience offered by Blue Nile.

Payment and Delivery Process

Upon the arrival of your ring in Singapore, the courier will contact you to arrange the payment of the fees and GST before delivery. All orders shipped to Singapore are transported securely and insured during transit, ensuring the safe arrival of your precious purchase. The estimated delivery time usually ranges between 3-7 days from the time your order is dispatched, offering a swift and hassle-free shopping experience.

After-Sale Services: Resizing and Returns

When purchasing a diamond ring, it’s crucial to consider the after-sale services provided by the retailer. Blue Nile offers free resizing for the first year following purchase, a lifetime warranty for any manufacturing defects, and free cleaning and inspection services for the lifetime of the ring. This level of customer care ensures that you can enjoy your engagement ring with confidence and peace of mind.

Blue Nile’s return policy allows for returns or exchanges within 30 days from the date of shipment, with customers bearing the cost of return shipping and insurance fees. A Return Merchandise Authorization (RMA) number is required for all returns, ensuring a smooth and efficient returns process.

Guide to Blue Nile's Returns Process in Singapore

Blue Nile’s return process is simple and straightforward. Items can be returned or exchanged within 30 days of dispatch from their premises, with customers provided an insured and complimentary shipping label via email within one working day of the return request being made.

This policy allows you to shop with confidence, knowing that you can return or exchange your ring if it doesn’t meet your expectations.

Navigating the Return Process

To facilitate a return, a Return Merchandise Authorization (RMA) number is required. Obtaining this number is a simple process:

  1. Initiate your return by contacting customer services via phone or email. You will then receive an RMA code and detailed instructions for returning your order.

  2. Arrange shipping and insurance. You can return your merchandise via Blue Nile’s preferred Parcel Pro-insured FedEx, UPS carrier, or any carrier of your choice. Be aware that you will bear the return shipping cost and insurance fees.

  3. Package your item(s) securely in the original packing materials.

  4. To expedite an exchange for a different product, it’s recommended that you return the original item for a refund and then place a new order. Please note that it usually takes approximately two weeks to process your refund.

Complimentary Shipping Label for Returns

To further simplify the process, Blue Nile provides an insured and complimentary shipping label via email within one working day of the return request being made. This feature enhances the convenience of the return process, allowing you to focus on finding the perfect piece of jewelry.

Exchanges and New Orders

For those looking to exchange their ring, Blue Nile recommends commencing a return and ordering a new product. The exchange process is similar to the return process, with items eligible for return or exchange within 30 days of being shipped.

By placing a new order, you can ensure that your replacement ring is processed and shipped quickly, minimizing any delays or inconveniences.

Resizing Options

Blue Nile understands that finding the perfect fit is essential for any engagement ring. They offer complimentary resizing for most rings within the manufacturer’s recommended sizing range during the first year of purchase.

With minor adjustments in terms of thickness/thinness following the resizing process, you can be confident that your ring will fit comfortably and securely.

Lifetime Warranty and Repairs

Blue Nile prides itself on delivering top-quality jewelry and demonstrates this through their robust lifetime warranty. This warranty offers protection against any manufacturing defects, allowing you to have your cherished piece inspected and if required, repaired or replaced at no extra cost. Moreover, their promise extends beyond just the warranty, showing their commitment to ensuring your jewelry retains its brilliance and quality over time.

Lifetime Upgrade

Blue Nile’s Lifetime Diamond Upgrade Program presents customers with a stellar opportunity to elevate their diamonds at any given time. If you’ve purchased a GIA or AGS-graded natural colorless diamond from Blue Nile Singapore, this program permits you to swap it out for a diamond that better suits your evolving preferences.

However, bear in mind that upgrades must align with the original diamond’s origin; thus, natural diamonds can only be upgraded to natural ones, and the same applies to lab-grown diamonds. The significant perk is that you’ll receive a credit equal to 100% of the original purchase price, given the diamond is in its initial condition and accompanied by the original certificate. This program not only ensures your diamond stays in sync with the latest trends but also demonstrates Blue Nile’s enduring commitment to customer satisfaction.

Comparing Blue Nile to Local Singapore Retailers

When it comes to value, Blue Nile outshines its local competitors. Research has shown that prices at local Singaporean diamond retailers are 30-40% higher than those found at Blue Nile Singapore. The Diamond Pro’s CEO, Mike Fried, brings over 20 years of diamond industry experience to the table, providing valuable insights and recommendations for customers.

While local retailers may offer the advantage of in-person consultations and immediate purchases, the value and selection provided by Blue Nile are hard to beat. By choosing Blue Nile, you can enjoy a vast array of engagement ring options, competitive pricing, and the convenience of online shopping.

blue nile store

Online vs In-Store Shopping Experience

The decision between online and in-store shopping for diamond rings ultimately comes down to personal preferences and needs. Online shopping with Blue Nile offers convenience, an extensive selection of products, and typically more competitive prices than in-store shopping. Furthermore, online stores generally provide more detailed product information and customer reviews, helping you make an informed decision.

Consider this: Blue Nile boasts an extensive collection of 300,000 natural diamonds and 20,000 lab-grown diamonds. Each of these sparkling gems comes with a high-quality video for easy inspection. Contrast this with the limited selection available in local stores. Moreover, when examining a diamond in-person, stores often use intensely bright lights that can distort the appearance of the diamond. This tactic can make the inspection process incredibly challenging for diamond buyers who are not experts in the field.

In contrast, in-store shopping allows customers to view and experience the product before making a purchase and receive advice from knowledgeable sales staff. Additionally, customers can usually obtain their purchase immediately rather than having to wait for delivery.

While both options have their advantages, the value and selection provided by Blue Nile make it an attractive choice for many consumers.

Expert Tips and Resources

To ensure that you select the perfect diamond from Blue Nile, consider the following expert tips: Look for a GIA certificate to guarantee an impartial evaluation of the diamond’s quality and worth; avoid strong fluorescence, as it may diminish the diamond’s aesthetic appeal; focus on cut quality, as it is the most critical factor influencing a diamond’s appearance; and finally, go for an eye-clean diamond with no inclusions visible to the naked eye, to maximize value.

blue nile diamond inspection

By keeping these expert tips in mind, you can enjoy the process of selecting and purchasing a diamond ring with confidence, knowing that you’re making the right choice and an informed decision based on quality, value, and aesthetics.

Diamond Education Center

Blue Nile provides extensive resources for diamond education, assisting you in making the most informed decision when buying diamonds. Grasping the aspects that define a high-quality diamond, such as the 4Cs (cut, color, clarity, and carat weight), shape, certifications, and other factors, is crucial to identifying and buying the perfect diamond for you.

Specifically, diamond certifications hold significant value as they offer an unbiased evaluation of the diamond’s quality. These are provided by independent gemological labs and affirm that the diamond meets the quality specified on the certificate.

Through the use of Blue Nile’s diamond education materials, you can shop for diamonds with confidence, backed by the knowledge that your decision is well-informed.

Reaching Out to Blue Nile's Specialists

For any queries or advice, Blue Nile’s knowledgeable team is just an email (service@bluenile.com), a phone call (1-800-242-2728), or a live chat away on their website. They are ready to assist with anything from choosing the perfect diamond, managing to resize, or handling any other aspect of your purchase.

Keep in mind, as you commence your jewelry shopping journey, expert help from Blue Nile is easily accessible. They are dedicated to offering you the necessary guidance and support to ensure you make the best choice.

Have Me On Your Side​

If you desire personalized assistance, consider reaching out to me. As someone who can help you select the ideal diamond or simply validate your choice, I’m here for you. My solid business relationship with Blue Nile allows me to offer you a free consultation. If you’re satisfied and choose to purchase, Blue Nile shares a portion of their profits with me, not at your expense. This creates a beneficial situation for all parties involved.

Testimonials and Reviews from Blue Nile Customers

Customers who have purchased engagement rings from Blue Nile have shared positive reviews and testimonials, praising the quality of the products and the customer service provided. These reviews can be found on the testimonials section of their website, as well as through a search of various online sources.

Unlocking Blue Nile's Savings and Deals

Scouting vendors for the best deals and savings is integral to any shopping spree. Here, we delve into the variety of savings opportunities at Blue Nile, encompassing details of their ongoing deals, the advantages of subscribing to their newsletter, and savvy ways to optimize your savings.

Present Deals

Currently, Blue Nile is extending a 15% discount to military members, healthcare workers, first responders, educators, and registered students. This concession is a token of their gratitude towards these indispensable members of society, giving them a chance to procure select jewelry at discounted rates.

In addition to this, Blue Nile offers a promotional cut of up to $50 on certain full-priced jewelry pieces. Keep in mind, however, this deal does not extend to special orders. For the scoop on all upcoming deals and discounts, regular checks on the Blue Nile website are advised.

For those of you who have friends looking to purchase fine jewelry or an engagement ring, Blue Nile offers a $100 coupon as a thank-you for referrals.

Subscribing to Blue Nile's Newsletter

If you’re considering a purchase but can wait for an appealing deal, becoming a subscriber to Blue Nile’s newsletter is a smart move. For instance, you could look out for significant sales events like Black Friday or the Christmas season to snag up to 50% off on fine jewelry. They typically hold sales during many notable holidays, ranging from Memorial Day to Mother’s Day and International Women’s Day, so patience can pay off.

Subscription to their newsletter not only gives you a sneak peek at exclusive deals but also keeps you updated about new collections and ongoing sales. To subscribe, simply head to their website and provide your email address. As a token of welcome, you’ll receive a $50 discount code upon sign-up.

Also, on occasion, they share exclusive discount codes and vouchers with diamond consultants like myself. If you require assistance with diamond and gold jewellery selection, don’t hesitate to get in touch, and I’d be delighted to share any available promotional codes with you.

Conclusion - My Personal Experience

In summary, importing a diamond ring from Blue Nile to Singapore involves accounting for an 8% GST, a 0.5% insurance fee, and a possible courier disbursement fee of $10-$100. Despite these extra charges, purchasing your diamond from Blue Nile can often prove more cost-effective than buying locally. However, conducting thorough research and securing a good deal is crucial.

Blue Nile has established itself as a top choice for diamond and fine jewelry shopping in Singapore. Their competitive pricing, vast selection, exceptional customer service, and wealth of expert resources contribute to a seamless shopping experience, helping you find your perfect jewelry piece without breaking the bank.

Although a large share of customers I advise is based in the US, a substantial amount from Singapore also consult with me when choosing their diamonds from Blue Nile. This has allowed me to gain insights into their customer experience with Blue Nile. Overwhelmingly, the feedback has been positive, with the import process running smoothly. Customers simply handle the fees and anticipate the arrival of their precious diamond at their doorstep. The process is as simple and straightforward as that.

Frequently Asked Questions

Absolutely, Blue Nile is a reputable company. It stands alongside James Allen as one of the largest online jewelers globally. All their diamonds are certified and come with complimentary appraisals from the American Gem Society, also known as the GIA, lending authenticity to their products.

Blue Nile also boasts an unrivaled collection of rings and loose diamonds offered at competitive prices.

Customer reviews and testimonials consistently indicate that Blue Nile is a trustworthy company that delivers high-quality diamonds at fair prices. Their commitment to sustainability, coupled with their stringent cut grading process, suggests a company that prides itself on adhering to the highest standards.

Hence, Blue Nile is undoubtedly a reputable company.

Blue Nile Shipping to Singapore orders takes approximately 3-7 days once they have been dispatched from their store.

Blue Nile Singapore offers secure delivery, free courier and insured shipping to customers, so you can have peace of mind that your order will arrive safely.

Absolutely, Blue Nile diamonds are authentic. Leveraging advanced technology and skilled gemologists, Blue Nile stands as a credible provider of quality diamonds that are reasonably priced.

Indeed, Blue Nile is a reputable supplier of genuine diamonds, offering an extensive selection of over 400,000 GIA-certified loose natural diamonds. They also cater to eco-conscious customers with their range of lab-grown diamonds, providing an ethical and environmentally friendly option.

Since 1999, Blue Nile has been at the forefront of transforming the diamond and engagement ring industry. They consistently offer exceptional diamonds at a fantastic value, thanks to their online business model. Blue Nile is dedicated to ethical sourcing and strictly adheres to the Kimberley Process, enforcing a stringent policy against conflict diamonds.

Their diverse collection of diamonds originates from various sources, including Africa, Australia, Canada, and Russia.

Absolutely, Blue Nile continues to be operational. Established in 1999, Blue Nile is an online jewelry retailer based in Seattle, Washington, and it has become a subsidiary of Bain Capital.

In 2022, Signet Jewelers acquired Blue Nile, and it continues to offer quality services to this day.

Blue Nile is famed for delivering top-tier diamonds and fine jewelry, including necklaces, casual rings, bracelets, earrings, and pendants, at an outstanding value. Their innovative online business model allows them to offer customers exceptional diamonds at economical prices.

Moreover, their assortment of engagement rings, wedding bands, and diamond jewelry is crafted to cater to every customer’s preferences.

Notably, Blue Nile is recognized for its expansive selection of GIA-certified lab-grown diamonds.

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