Thursday 18 December 2014

Online Shopping, Online Shopping in India

Is it Safe to Buy Precious Jewellery Online?

The first e-commerce site for diamond jewellery started nearly 10 years ago. Today, according to a report on Newswire.net published in September 2013, almost 2 million people choose online shopping for jewellery on a daily basis. This is because these virtual portals have better options and offers than their brick and mortar counterparts. This has led to exponential growth worldwide of online jewellery stores, and jewellery sales through e-commerce websites have reached a whooping US$ 5 billion. This trend is largely seen in the consumer markets of Europe, the US, the Middle East, China, Japan, India, Russia and Brazil.

Why Buy Jewellry Online


When it comes to these fancies, the worldwide web offers many options without burning a hole in your pocket. That is not all, you also get:

1. Speed of transactions
2. Convenience of shopping
3. The vast collection

How to Buy Safely Online

Despite the figures and advantages, there are a few questions on the authenticity of the stones and the quality of the precious metal when you are shopping online. So, to address these concerns, it is always better to do a bit of homework and brush up on your knowledge before choosing the option of online shopping in India. Here are a few parameters to get you started…

1. Nature of Shipment:This is a critical issue while making expensive purchases. Find a store that provides quality shipment packaging with a tracking facility.

2. Quality Certificates: Many labs offer assurance certificates. Look for BIS Hallmark for gold (916), diamond and silver pieces, which is the standard in India. Apart from this, there are two labs, the GIA and AGS, and diamond quality certifications from them are accepted worldwide.

3. Product Images:Go to stores that use high definition images for product display, look for the brand watermark on these pictures to determine authenticity.

4. Pricing:Check the pricing across various online stores to get a fair idea about the standard pricing.

5. Customer Service:This is important to ensure that if you have any problem, you can get timely assistance without any hassles.

6. Return Policy: If you are not satisfied with the quality of them item, you need a return policy. Go through the online shopping site to understand their terms before making the purchase. Check for hidden charges, like re-stocking fees and return charges, especially if the seller is not in India.

Friday 12 December 2014

Christmas Offers, Christmas Gifts

Top Christmas Destinations for a Magical Experience

A young girl perched on a donkey guides a procession with a candle, past the shopsand pedestrians in San Miguel de Allende, New Mexico. The city isalive with colourful piƱatas and indigenous poinsettia leaves, as the countdown for the holy day begins. As the parade stops and breaks into a chorus, one will realise that Mary and Joseph’s search for shelter is unfolding in front of their eyes. With December already here, the holiday season is in full swing as people rush to find the perfect Christmas gifts, all while looking to plan a wintery holiday before the clock runs out. From New York to New Zealand, a Christmas of merriment awaits, we just need to pick the right one.

Top 3Christmas Destinations

Whether you pick a holiday that enhances your Yule knowledge and traditions, or one that lets you break into the warmer horizons; when you step away from home for those jingle bells, you will be mightily rewarded with a Christmas gift that you will always cherish. Here are the best places to visit to just such an experience:

1. Amsterdam

The legend of Sinterklaas, or as we know him, Santa Clause, is most experienced in the Dutch capital. Houses dating back to the 16th and 17th centuries are adorned with glittering lights even as December sets in. Hop on the traditionalnoren, long-bladed ice skates, which allow you to have a dash of fun in the outdoor rinks. On New Year’s Eve, wade through Dam squares orNieuwmarkt to catch the fireworks as you sample some bubbling champagne.

2. Munich

The Bavarian capital glows under the magnificent hundredfoot Xmas tree located in Marienplatz. It is surrounded by more than two dozen markets filled with different Christmas offers and treats. This time of the year sees wine and the legendary gingerbread being served on the city tram. From November 25 onwards, the Town Hall showcases live music every evening at 5:30, in tune with the season.

3. Prague

Mala Strana’s historic NerudovaStreet is home to Baroque and Gothic architecture, which is a breathtaking sight, especially during this time of year. The National Theatre and State Operahouses host recitals in light of the festivities. The old Town Square and Wenceslas Square are cast in holiday markets that have an array of exquisite trinkets.

Make sure to plan ahead to get the best rates for flights and accommodation. Before you head off to your snowy destination, make sure you utilize the Christmas offers back here in India to the fullest. You might find a thing or two for your trip as well...